Lewis Hamilton says he doesn’t really feel beneath stress to show himself as he begins his Ferrari profession on the Australian Grand Prix.
The seven-time champion left Mercedes after 12 years, the place they turned essentially the most profitable team-driver mixture in Formulation 1 historical past.
The 40-year-old British driver received six of his titles between 2014 and 2020 however has solely received two races for the reason that begin of the 2022 season.
Talking in Melbourne, Hamilton stated: “I’m beneath no illusions that it will likely be straightforward. I don’t really feel the stress. The surface stress doesn’t have an effect on me. The stress comes from inside, and what I need to obtain.
“I’m not right here to show something to anybody. I’ve accomplished that many occasions earlier than. I do know what it takes to do an excellent job, and that’s what I need to do, for myself, my household, and this staff, who I really consider deserve success.
“They’re so pushed, and perhaps they haven’t had as a lot success as they’d like or deserve. I simply need to assist them get there.”
When requested what success would appear like, Hamilton replied: “I’m simply specializing in the work forward.”
Hamilton was calm and smiling as he spoke to the media on the Thursday press convention, exhibiting the identical optimistic angle he’s had since becoming a member of Ferrari.
He known as this era making ready for his Ferrari debut “essentially the most thrilling time of my life. I’m actually having fun with it, and I can’t wait to get within the automobile.”
Hamilton additionally stated he thinks the competitors this season will likely be shut between Ferrari, McLaren, Pink Bull, and Mercedes.
He added that he nonetheless had work to do to succeed in his greatest at Ferrari, as he was nonetheless adjusting to the staff and the automobile.
“I’m nonetheless studying this new automobile, which is sort of totally different from what I’ve pushed all through my profession,” he stated. “Ferrari energy feels totally different after so a few years with Mercedes.”
“The earlier I can carry out at a excessive degree, the higher, however there’s all the time a transition interval. Constructing relationships, belief with everybody. Respect is given, however belief is earned over time.”
“I’ve had some not-so-great years, and I’m targeted on ensuring this one is healthier. However there are numerous elements that may contribute to that.”