I'll win it clean, says determined Lewis

But then the Briton had to defend himself against accusations of cheating as the extraordinary Formula One season took yet another twist.

After producing an impressive lap to put himself behind pole-sitter Felipe Massa, Hamilton was accused of impeding Raikkonen during the Finn's final flying lap.

The 22-year-old, who was on an 'out lap' at the time and appeared to move out of the way at the last moment, shrugged off the criticism and declared himself ready to become the first rookie to win the F1 crown.

'I'm here to do a completely clean job, rather than being investigated for various things,' said Hamilton, who is four points ahead of Alonso and seven ahead of Raikkonen.

'If anything, Kimi can win. It would be better for me. Most of all, I have to beat Alonso. The car felt good. We have the pace. I'm pretty confident and relaxed. The fans here are very enthusiastic and it was great to see all the British flags.

'I really enjoyed myself. It was a great qualifying session. I just lost a bit of time at the last corner, but it wasn't a mistake. It was close to the perfect lap and I am happy. It was a good battle with Felipe. He did a fantastic job to put it on pole.'

Raikkonen appeared unconcerned by Hamilton's actions, saying: 'It's just the way it is. Though for sure it could have been a bit easier to pass.'

Other than that spat, it was a satisfactory afternoon for Hamilton. He fell only fractionally short of Massa's pole time on his home track by 0.15sec and seems relaxed about his date with destiny.

The weather forecast is good too, giving him every chance of a straightforward afternoon, when he needs to finish second, or ahead of his two rivals, to be certain of taking the title. 'I really enjoyed the qualifying session,' said Hamilton. 'I'm just buzzing. I'm really excited. I feel very relaxed, the car is great and I love the circuit.'

Regarding Friday's first practice when McLaren illegally used two sets of wet tyres on Hamilton's car and picked up a £10,500 fine, he insisted: 'It wasn't down to me. I do what I'm told. We got a fine. Fortunately, I don't have to pay for it.'

Massa, who won the race here last year from pole position, said: 'It was a good lap — and to be here in front of my home people, there is real emotion.'

But Alonso, who had an observer at the track to ensure he got fair treatment, said: 'I was beaten fair and square by Lewis. I am not being pessimistic, but my chances of winning the championship are less now after qualifying fourth. I need a special race if I want to be champion.'

Raikkonen has to finish first or second and hope Hamilton is sixth or worse if he is to have a chance.