Lewis Hamilton says he is “really excited” to be able to try and defend his drivers’ championship with Mercedes this season.
Hamilton’s first title in 2008 was followed by a disappointing season as McLaren’s car in 2009 was uncompetitive early on, preventing him from putting up a serious title defence. With Mercedes heading in to the new season as heavy favourites once again, Hamilton says it is a position he is relishing.
“I don’t really remember what I felt in 2009, but I can assure you that it wasn’t good, especially when I first drove the car,” Hamilton said. “Definitely for me it’s a better feeling this year, but I’m in a different place in my life and having seen what the team has done over the winter break and into this new car, it’s massively inspiring for me.
“I’m really excited and I’m sure that we will have the chance to at least fight for what we achieved last year.”
However, Hamilton says starting the season in better fashion than a year ago - when he retired and team-mate Rosberg won - is not essential.
“I don’t see a particular exaggerated importance [compared] to any other time. Of course you come here and you’d like to start on the right foot, as I did want to last year, but there is a long, long way to go so it’s not the most important start of the year.”
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