On last season’s nail-biting title decider in Yas Marina, Hamilton said: “Last year, this place brought probably the most intense weekend of my life. I didn’t sleep much through nerves and not knowing what was ahead. But this time around there’s no pressure, so I’ll be well-rested and aiming to go out on a high.
“A lot of British fans come out to Abu Dhabi so it’s like another home crowd for me. To win for them and show how grateful I am for the fantastic support I’ve had all year would be the best way to end an incredible season.”
Rosberg impressed in Mexico and Brazil, but he seems to have found top form exactly when it matters least. A year on from limping home in Abu Dhabi with mechanical problems – perhaps the best opportunity Rosberg will ever have to win a title – the German wants to carry strong momentum into 2016.
Nico Rosberg hopes to end the season on a high note
“Last year was probably my biggest disappointment – losing the title at the last moment with a mechanical problem,” Rosberg said. “But I showed my speed there with pole position and I have good momentum behind me right now, so I’m aiming to end the season on a big positive this time around.”
Abu Dhabi marks the last race for this year’s Mercedes, the W06 Hybrid, one of the most dominant cars Formula One has ever known. In the 18 races so far, it has won 15, taking 17 pole positions along the way.
Hamilton and Rosberg will face off again in the desert Photo: AP
But Toto Wolff, the Mercedes boss, conceded that after two years of comfortably winning both championships, 2016 represents the team’s biggest challenge.
“We now go to Abu Dhabi with the best possible championship positions secured and a chance to reflect on an incredible year,” Wolff said. “While we celebrate a job well done this time around, however, the next challenge will be upon us before we know it.
“2016 will undoubtedly provide our biggest test yet as a group. We will not be backing off – and an entertaining battle at the front between our boys for one last time in 2015 will be the ideal way to show that.”