As China Grand Prix in Shanghai is about to start in 10 minutes, confidence in McLaren camp is high after a convincing qualifying session (1:36.303, Q3) yesterday from the Brit Lewis Hamilton.

He was too fast for anyone to catch, not even in practice and the he’s only driver to go sub 1:36 timing on Day One of Practice for both session.

But Hamilton knows not to get too cocky as last year he was in the same position as now, leading in the drivers points, then mistakes at this GP cost him valuable points and we all knew what happened at Brazil, despite his best effort

So now Hamilton starts off the pole but he will have to hold off challenges from Massa and other drivers.

If he wants to stay in contention for the championship, for some reason if disaster struck, despite not even in the podium standings, at most he needs to finish ahead of Massa to stay ahead in terms of points

And if Hamilton wins today and Massa finish no better than fifth, the Brit can be crowned the title.

But it seems Massa has garnered plenty of friends who wish to help

Ferrari’s Kimi Raikkonen who will start second on the grid today, has pledged to help his teamate Massa to keep the title in Ferrari grasp. He was the last year winner on this track, so he knows the track well

While Renault’s Fernando Alonso who is on a winning streak off Singapore and Japan GP has an outsider chance of wrecking Hamilton title hopes. He starts fourth on the grid, behind Massa who qualified 3rd yesterday. He also pledged to help Massa cause

Yes it will be an interesting GP and the China weather looks in Hamilton favor.

The clouds over Shanghai might promise some shower and the Brit is more competent on a wet track than other drivers.

So hang on to your seats, wherever you’re watching China GP live, I expect some fireworks today!