Hungarian Grand Prix: Could Lewis Hamilton's gesture cost him the title?

Alain Prost (left) won four world titles. But for missing out on the title by two points in 1983 and half a point in 1984 (pictured) it could have been six

It was a very sporting gesture.

Lewis Hamilton kept his word at the Hungarian Grand Prix by handing back third place to his team-mate Valtteri Bottas - a promise made during the race as Hamilton attempted to chase down the leading Ferraris.

But could it come at a price?

Finishing fourth instead of third cost Hamilton three points, meaning Ferrari's Sebastian Vettel leads the Briton by 14 points heading into the summer break.

Since the very first Formula 1 world championship in 1950, 27% of seasons have been decided by three points or fewer, so Hamilton has definitely taken a risk.

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Gallery - selected titles decided by three points or fewer

Tense title deciders

There's been plenty of thrilling title tussles over the years but these are the 18 that were decided by three points or fewer:

BBC Sport users react to Hamilton's gesture