Lewis Hamilton says he is encouraged by how quickly he managed to get up to speed in Monaco after topping practice on Thursday.
The defending world champion was quickest in both FP1 and FP2, holding an advantage of three quarters of a second over team-mate Nico Rosberg before rain interrupted the afternoon session. Having dominated Thursday's running, Hamilton says he feels in a good place ahead of Saturday's qualifying.
"Here is really about getting on the pace as quick as you can, and you’re always finding time, every lap you get, then being very specific with the changes you make," Hamilton said. "You don’t make too many, unless you’re unlucky and the car balance is quite far off, but generally now with car simulations it’s not really the case.
"Sometimes it does happen but today the balance was not far off so we’ve just been tweaking it here and there trying to gain a bit of performance and learn the limitations. The first session was really good and then this one was really good as well so I’m generally happy with the balance. There’s still things I can improve on balance-wise but also on the track so that’s what I’ll work towards."
And Hamilton admits his new three-year contract is playing a part in his confident mood.
"I have a great feeling. I’m grateful I’m here, I’m grateful I’ve got this amazing car, I’m grateful in this team, I’m grateful I’m one of the few [F1] drivers here. I’m just doing everything I can to try and win this race."
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