Sebastian Vettel needs to score just a single point at Suzuka in two weeks to put the lid on his second title.
The German could have wrapped up the championship under Singapore’s lights, but despite Vettel’s victory Jenson Button spoiled the mathematics by finishing second.
Briton Button is now the only driver still technically in the running with five races still to run.
But with Vettel needing just a tenth place in Japan in the event that Button wins, BBC commentator Martin Brundle observed: "They might as well give him (Vettel) the pot."
Red Bull boss Christian Horner however suggested it is unlikely the 24-year-old will simply cruise to a mid-pack finish at Suzuka.
"If he keeps going as he has been the championship will take care of itself," he said. "It has been a great season and we want to end it in style."
Agreed Vettel: "It looks like we will have another chance at the next race."