Lewis Hamilton remains firmly in control of the Formula 1 World Drivers’ Championship lead after his fifth consecutive visit to the podium in Spain two weeks ago, but is hoping to get back to the top step this weekend in Monaco after seeing Mercedes AMG PETRONAS team-mate Nico Rosberg take victory at the Circuit de Catalunya.
Despite the reigning World Drivers’ Champion feeling he had a disappointing weekend in Spain two weeks ago, his focus is now firmly on Monaco, with the Briton eager to take his second victory around the street circuit having won back in 2008 whilst driving for McLaren.
“I didn’t have the best weekend in Barcelona, so to come away with second was okay in terms of damage limitation and it meant another great result for the team with the one-two,” said Hamilton.
“I’m now fully focused on Monaco – the race that everybody looks forward to and one I particularly love. It’s the biggest challenge of the year for a driver and, when you get it right, that feeling is hard to beat.”
Hamilton insists getting into a rhythm early in the weekend is key to a strong weekend, as it means he can focus on getting the set-up right for the rest of the event.
“Building a rhythm right from the beginning of practice is so important, as you really need to feel your way into the circuit,” added Hamilton. “You have to be inch perfect at every point, as the slightest slip can ruin your weekend. It’s about pure driving skill and pure bravery behind the wheel, which for me is what makes it so special.
“Like Spain, it’s another circuit where I haven’t had the best of luck in the past – but I’m not interested in what’s been and gone or in making any predictions. I’m just here to get in this fantastic car we have, race it hard and give it everything I’ve got, like always.”
