Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton upbeat ahead of new season
What's the story
Six-time Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton has said he feels on another level ahead of the new season as he attempts to equal Michael Schumacher's record haul of seven world championships. The reigning title-holder, who spent much of the off-season in the United States, was back at headquarters of his Mercedes team in Northamptonshire. Here's what Hamilton said.
Time off
It has been an incredible winter, says Hamilton
Speaking on his break, Hamilton said he spend a lot of time with his family. "It has been an incredible winter," said Hamilton in an online message to his fans. "I have spent a lot of time with family and friends. I would say probably one of the best times has been with my dad, and secondly, the training has been different this year."
Work
We still have a lot of work to do: Hamilton
Hamilton feels Mercedes have a lot of work to do and that's the reason they need to be more efficient. "We have no idea where we are going to stand compared to everybody else, so we have to be more efficient in our test programme this year, particularly as we have less testing time. We still have a lot of work to do."
Quote
Hamilton not thinking of equaling Schumacher's record
"The feeling I have, both physically and mentally, is on another level compared to last year. That is a real positive. I know you guys are gunning for title number seven but we have to take it one step at a time," he added.
Our take
Hamilton's fine run means he could equal Schumacher's record
Hamilton has been on a sublime run of form. He has won three successive F1 titles to pocket his sixth in 2019. Prior to the 2016 win by Nico Rosberg, the Briton had also sealed the titles with Mercedes in 2014 and 2015 respectively. It is safe to say that Hamilton and Mercedes are the favorites this term. We could see him equal Schumacher.
Information
Hamilton will hope to break Australian GP jinx
The Formula 1 2020 season starts with the Australian Grand Prix. The race is set to be held on March 15. Mercedes will hope to start well. Notably, Hamilton hasn't won a race here since 2015. Last season, his team-mate Valtteri Bottas sealed victory.