Britain's Lewis Hamilton won a rain soaked Japanese GP this morning - and took a huge step towards the Formula One world championship.

The McLaren youngster battled back after almost spinning out when he was hit by another car to lead the race at the Fuji circuit.

His team-mate and main championship rival Fernando Alonso crashed out.

The pair are now separated by 12 points with just two races to go.

After the race Alonso conceded he needed Hamilton not to finish one of the remaining races if he was to have any hope of holding on to his crown.