After taking pole on Saturday to end Red Bull's domination of the prime grid position this year and secure his first qualifying success in 26 races since last year's Canadian Grand Prix, a loud cheer might even have been in order.
But the 26-year-old Englishman, whose 2011 season has been punctuated by collisions, disappointments, arguments and controversy, instead cast a sombre figure as his McLaren team prepared for the 55-lap race.
Another win by Hamilton, or his team-mate and compatriot Jenson Button, would certainly be celebrated in style as the Woking-based outfit try to establish late season supremacy ahead of a serious bid for glory next year.
Should Sunday afternoon's race go his way, Hamilton's 17th career win will no doubt be welcomed raucously in contrast to his serious demeanour after qualifying for pole.
Hamilton, champion in 2008, said that he only realised he had taken pole position as he did his slowing down lap - after Vettel had crossed the line in his vain attempt to protect Red Bull's record this year.
Hamilton will have Vettel alongside him at the start of Sunday's race with team-mate Button behind him in third place.
Red Bull could clinch the constructors' championship if they do not allow McLaren to outscore them by more than one point.
A McLaren one-two would prevent Red Bull taking the teams' title. -http://news.smh.com.au
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