Hamilton backs Button to win F1 title

Lewis Hamilton is ready to put money on fellow Briton Jenson Button taking his Formula One world crown this season.

On a roll: Jenson Button celebrates his win at the Monaco Grand Prix on Sunday. Button has won five of the six GP's this year

Any remote hope Hamilton had of catching Button disappeared when he slid his McLaren into a tyre wall during qualifying on Saturday for the Monaco Grand Prix after threatening victory during practice.

From 19th on the grid, Hamilton finished 12th, albeit a lap down on Button who won his fifth race out of six this year to stretch his lead at the top of the standings to 16 points.

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As for Hamilton, he now trails Button by 42 points, and barring a miracle, the 24-year-old's reign will be for one season only.

It is now all eyes on Button, and Hamilton for one is right behind him as he said: "Jenson and the Brawn team are doing a fantastic job this year.

"Clearly, he is in the best position to win the championship. All the best to him. I'd definitely put my money on him."