Lewis tells Button he will only be borrowing his F-1 title

Brit Formula One ace Lewis Hamilton has reportedly told title holder Jenson Button that he will be only borrowing his world title.

The reigning champ has his fingers crossed that fellow Brit Button will inherit his crown in Suzuka this Sunday.

Button will seal the drivers' championship if he is at least 20 points ahead of Brawn GP teammate Rubens Barrichello and Red Bull's Sebastian Vettel after the Japanese Grand Prix, reports The Sun.
 
But Hamilton reckons his crushing win in Singapore on Sunday proved he would be the favourite next year if McLaren give him a competitive car from the start of the season.

Hamilton, 24, said: "I have my fingers crossed for Jenson that he will win it. I look forward to challenging him next year and taking my title back. But I'm glad I am back at the front now. I'm showing that No 1 was earned. It was on my car for a reason. It is a positive feeling to be able to do that."

F1 has the thrilling prospect of Hamilton going up against former teammate Fernando Alonso when the double champ switches from Renault to Ferrari.

Spaniard Alonso is replacing Kimi Raikkonen, who returns to McLaren.

Button leads Barrichello by 15 points with Vettel 10 points further back - and only three races left.

Hamilton knows just what Button, 29, will be feeling if he finally reaches his goal in Japan.

"He has only five points to get - but I had only a couple of points to get in 2007. I can only wish him all the best."