Nico Rosberg remains upbeat about his chances of winning the Brazilian Grand Prix and wrapping up a maiden Formula One world title, despite losing out on pole to Lewis Hamilton.

Championship leader Rosberg will start in second position on the grid on Sunday, behind reigning world champion and Mercedes team-mate Hamilton at Interlagos.

Rosberg is 19 points clear atop the drivers' standings heading into the penultimate race of the season and the German can end the title race with victory ahead of Hamilton this weekend.

"It was very close but Lewis was just marginally quicker in the end and my lap was good in the end but just not quick enough and missing that little bit out there," Rosberg said after qualifying.

"It is okay, as we have seen this year pole position isn't always the one who wins the race so I am still optimistic for the race tomorrow as I want to win.

"I am looking forward and trying to get Lewis into turn one that is the plan. Of course, it is not that easy and the run into turn ne is very short so that doesn't help but I will try everything I can."

Rosberg added: "I don't think about much to lose tomorrow at the moment, I just look forward to tomorrow's race, whatever comes.

"We have a great car in any conditions dry or wet so it will be exciting."