Hamilton 'happy' at McLaren

Published September 17, 2012

Hamilton, 27, speaking on a visit to India, spoke warmly about his long relationship with McLaren. -Photo by AFP

MUMBAI: Lewis Hamilton insists he is happy at McLaren and believes the Formula One team can deliver success this season but the British driver says he has yet to make a decision on his future.

The former world champion, whose contract with the British-based outfit expires at the end of the 2012 season, acknowledged rumours linking him to the rival Mercedes team, with Michael Schumacher expected to retire at the end of the season.

But Hamilton, 27, speaking on a visit to India, spoke warmly about his long relationship with McLaren, with whom he won the 2008 drivers' championship.

“There have been a lot of speculations and rumours about my move to Mercedes but I am happy with McLaren,” he was quoted as saying by the Times of India.

“We have a great car and we are in a position to challenge the top teams. We are definitely in with a chance to win the championship,” Hamilton added.

The Briton, who was in Mumbai for a sponsors' event ahead of next month's Indian Grand Prix in New Delhi, said he would not be rushed into deciding on his next step.

“No, I haven't committed to any team as yet. I don't have a timeline either.

“I won my first world championship with McLaren (in 2008) and I am happy with their background, the people and environment there,” Hamilton added.

Hamilton currently lies second in the drivers' championship behind Spain's Fernando Alonso after victory in the Italian Grand Prix at Monza, his third win this year.

Opinion

Editorial

First steps
Updated 29 May, 2024

First steps

One hopes that this small change will pave the way for bigger things.
Rafah inferno
29 May, 2024

Rafah inferno

THE level of barbarity witnessed in Sunday’s Israeli air strike targeting a refugee camp in Rafah is shocking even...
On a whim
29 May, 2024

On a whim

THE sudden declaration of May 28 as a public holiday to observe Youm-i-Takbeer — the anniversary of Pakistan’s...
Afghan puzzle
Updated 28 May, 2024

Afghan puzzle

Unless these elements are neutralised, it will not be possible to have the upper hand over terrorist groups.
Attacking minorities
28 May, 2024

Attacking minorities

Mobs turn into executioners due to the authorities’ helplessness before these elements.
Persistent scourge
Updated 29 May, 2024

Persistent scourge

THE challenge of polio in Pakistan has reached a new nadir, drawing grave concerns from the Technical Advisory Group...