Lewis Hamilton believes a closer F1 title race would be better for fans as Max Verstappen edges closer to regaining his title.
Verstappen can win successive titles at this weekend's Singapore Grand Prix - a far cry from last year when the Dutchman pipped Hamilton in the final race in Abu Dhabi.
And the Brit feels sorry for supporters that the title race could be done and dusted, with five races remaining.
"I definitely feel for the fans because going right down to the wire last year was so intense for everybody and it is never great when the season finishes early," Hamilton said.
"For you as the individual, it's great - I won the title in Mexico with races to spare - but for the actual sport it's not spectacular.
"I'm really grateful to have had my championship win in 2008 go right down to the last 17 seconds and obviously last year was pretty much the same thing too. Let's hope for the future it's a bit better."
Verstappen is 167 points ahead of Hamilton after winning 11 of the 16 races so far this season, leaving his rivals in his wake.
He will be crowned champion with victory, providing he sets the fastest lap and Sergio Perez and Charles Leclerc finish lower than fourth and eight respectively. Hamilton meanwhile is yet to win a race in 2022.
But Vertsappen insists it is not likely he will secure the title in Singapore, with races in Austin, Mexico, Brazil and Abu Dhabi to come.
"I am not really thinking about the championship. It is a long shot and I just want to enjoy the weekend," he said.
"I need a lot of luck for it to happen, so it is unrealistic. I am not really counting on it happening."
