Champagne moment for Lewis Hamilton as he wins third World Championship

Briton Lewis Hamilton today clinched his third World Championship when he won the US Grand Prix in Austin, Texas.

The race went ahead after persistent heavy rain but afterwards there was champagne in the air as Hamilton sprayed the celebratory alcohol over his fans.

Nico Rosberg appeared on course to postpone his team-mate's title celebrations for one more race, but the German made an unforced error with just seven laps remaining to allow Hamilton to take the lead.

Sebastian Vettel fought his way back from 13th to finish third in one of the best races in recent memory but it was not enough to prevent Hamilton from amounting an unassailable lead in the championship with three races to spare.

Hamilton now joins Ayrton Senna and Sir Jackie Stewart with three titles to his name. He also becomes the first British driver to successfully defend his Formula One crown.