Could Nico Rosberg be plotting a coup?

The final Grand Prix will decide the 2014 world title, and Pitstop wonders which driver truly deserves the crown.

The 2014 Formula 1 championship will be decided in Abu Dhabi, a result that comes as no surprise to anyone. With 50 points still up for grabs, it was likely that the title would be decided in the final race, especially since Mercedes has taken a hands-off approach, allowing its two drivers to compete freely throughout the season. Hamilton currently leads Rosberg by 17 points, but even that lead could evaporate in a single Grand Prix. The same would be true under a normal scoring system, but the stakes are now higher. Critics might be quick to denounce a Rosberg victory as unfair, but it would not be a theft. Hamilton's record, with ten wins to Rosberg's five, suggests he has more claim to the title, but a championship is also about consistency, and in that regard, the German has the edge. Rosberg's ten pole positions further underscore his pace, even though Hamilton has often finished ahead of him in the overall standings. In their duels, Hamilton has generally imposed his will, while Rosberg has sometimes shown hesitation. Experience gained in previous title fights and natural aggression have played a role, pushing both drivers to their physical and mental limits. Sunday's race at Interlagos illustrated this determination. Rosberg withstood the pressure despite his recent setbacks, and Hamilton continued to fight even when he could have eased off. I must admit that I felt a twinge of disappointment that Hamilton did not ease off, not out of malice, but because a more cautious approach would have neutralized the double points rule and given both drivers equal chances for the final showdown. Regardless of the retirements or the gaps between the winners, the championship will be decided in this final race without any artificial handicaps. May the best driver win.

Whatever the outcome on November 23, the winner will be a deserving champion, even if some fans are unhappy. Their disappointment is understandable after such a grueling season, but the quality demonstrated by both drivers leaves little room for complaint. Ultimately, it's simply a matter of congratulating the champion.