Lewis Hamilton will head into the 2010 Formula One season wiser and stronger following a dramatic year for the outgoing world champion.
It was a year that began in shocking circumstances as Hamilton was ensnared in the ‘liegate’ controversy, which resulted in him making a humble apology for his actions in Australia.
There followed a tortuous few months as he was forced to fight at the back of the grid in an uncompetitive McLaren as the team were caught short by the sport’s sweeping rule changes.
McLaren eventually managed to get their act together and provide the 24-year-old with a car that not only returned to the front but was able to take the chequered flag in Hungary and Singapore.
Remarkably, over the final eight races, Hamilton claimed 40 points, more than any other driver, and yet he failed to finish in three of those.
That included season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix when a brake issue robbed him of potentially the win and certainly a podium. Independent
Now the focus turns to next year, with McLaren seemingly already ahead of the game.
“The race was a disappointing end to a challenging season, but overall there are plenty of reasons to be cheerful about it,” said Whitmarsh.
“The fact we beat Ferrari to third place is also a matter of pride to us, and I want to pay tribute to all at the team for the superhuman efforts they made in achieving that milestone.
“Ferrari are always formidable opponents for us, and next year we hope to beat them again - this time for first place rather than third.
But the 24-year-old is already looking forward to next year, and a more sustained tilt at the championship when he hopes to regain his crown.
“Of course, it’s a shame we couldn’t show the performance we’d had throughout the weekend, but sometimes that’s racing,” said Hamilton.
“However, I think we can be really proud of our efforts. Who’d have thought we’d finish third in the constructors’ championship at the start of this season?
“It’s been an incredible year, and now I can’t wait for next season to start so I can fight for the world championship again.” Telegraph.co.uk
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