Following the first day of testing at Hockenheim in Germany, Vodafone McLaren Mercedes F1 Team driver Lewis Hamilton spoke with a group of reporters at the circuit. The Hockenheim test kicked off only 48 hours after Lewis won his home Grand Prix at Silverstone.
After your victory at the Santander British Grand Prix how does it feel to be back testing?
“I am pleased to be back testing as I just love spending time in the car. It’s a great feeling being part of the development process with the team and I do anything I can to help. We are all pushing hard to try and win the World Championships.”
Have you taken a step forward with the car since Silverstone?
“Its too early say where we are but we have taken some steps forward but as always we will have to wait and see.”
Do you like the Hockenheim circuit?
“I like this track and today is obviously the first day I have had the opportunity to drive a Formula 1 car here. I have enjoyed some success here in Formula 3 and it’s been really enjoyable driving the Formula 1 car today – I would have loved to drive the old circuit though as well.”
Have you had the opportunity to watch the Santander British Grand Prix yet and how did you celebrate your victory in your home grand prix last Sunday?
“I caught some of the highlights on Sunday night but I haven’t watched the whole race – I was actually in bed by 11.00 after a family dinner and had the best nights sleep ever!”
What do you think about the Championship battle?
“The championship is exciting as a number of us are on equal points so it should be an interesting second half of the season where Heikki and I want to continue to score points and win races.”
Who do you think will win the World Championship?
“My guess is that the Championship will be decided at the last race – just like last year – but we will see.”
Do you look forward to competing at Mercedes-Benz’ home grand prix?
“Obviously I have just won my home grand prix at Silverstone which was fantastic. However, the Hockenheim race is important for the team due to Mercedes-Benz and of course I want to do well here. The support we get in Germany is amazing and it would be great to have a one-two.”
Finally, today there has been a story on some websites that you are possibly looking at working with a different management team – is that correct?
“Thank you for asking and I can say that this is definitely not true. I am very happy with my management team.”
