Hamilton: An awesome season so far

Joint leader in the championship and finally having the battle against Ferrari that he always wanted, Lewis Hamilton says it has been an “awesome” season so far.

Hamilton arrived at the Sakhir circuit ahead of the Bahrain GP weekend tied with Sebastian Vettel on 43 points in the standings.

Both drivers have scored one race win and a runner-up result with Hamilton’s victory coming last time out in China.

“So far so good,” he said of his 2017 season during Thursday’s press conference in Bahrain.

“Happy to be back in Bahrin, always amazing weather.

“Been an awesome season so far and we are working hard as a team to continue that level.”

However, the Mercedes driver is expecting a fierce challenge from Ferrari.

The Scuderia have in recent times shown good pace in hot conditions and Hamilton believes that will continue this weekend.

“I definitely do,” he said when asked if thought he’d have a tough time against Ferrari in Bahrain.

“I think Ferrari have shown tremendous pace.

“At the first race, especially in race trim, they are quick on a hot circuit.

“I think the gaps will be even closer but we shall see.”

As for his tussle with the Scuderia’s Sebastian Vettel, Hamilton reiterated his belief that it is makes for a better event than an intra-team battle.

“More exciting racing another team, like I experienced 2007 and 2008.

“So be amongst the fight between a Silver Arrow and a Ferrari is great, more exciting then just two Silver Arrows.”

He added: “It is different racing against another team, their strengths and weaknesses.

“Definitely having to push the boundaries on your own is more of a challenge, which I love.”