Pirelli Japanese race report: Hamilton takes subdued victory using three stop strategy in Japan

(Mercedes AMG F1 Team)

Mercedes AMG PETRONAS F1 Team driver Lewis Hamilton made a three stop strategy work to take victory in today's extremely wet Japanese Grand Prix at the Suzuka circuit following a short rain delay the 2008 world champion made his way through the spray to take victory ahead of Mercedes team mate Nico Rosberg.

Hamilton switched to a set of brand new Pirelli Cinturato Blue walled wet tyre's on the second lap of the race after the event was started behind the safety car due to the extremely poor conditions at the circuit this afternoon. Hamilton made his second stop on lap 14 for a new set of Intermediate rubber before making a final stop on lap 35 for a set of new Intermediates.

Only four of the 21 finishes only four driver's ran the race on a four stop strategy. Speaking following the race Pirelli Motorsport Director Paul Heembery stated:

'The Japanese Grand Prix was held under extremely tricky conditions, but obviously our main concern, along with that of the entire paddock, is the accident that halted the race involving Jules Bianchi and Marussia.'

© Ben Johnston 2014