gp2series.com
Lewis Hamilton yesterday stood at the centre of one of the most lavish Formula One launches of recent times. But despite the enormity of the events unfolding around him, he could have been forgiven for feeling a slight sense of déjà vu. Less than 12 months ago, in that very spot at the City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia, Spain, Lewis had been attending the launch of the 2006 GP2 series. Little did anyone know that over the course of the season he would rewrite GP2 series history and bag himself a seat alongside the Formula One World Champion in 2007.
But that’s exactly what he did. And now he stands on the brink of realising his dream, and competing in Formula One.
“The feeling is indescribable,†he grins. “Growing up I always dreamed of racing for McLaren and now, I am. I am extremely thankful to my family as without their unwavering support and hard work I would not be here in this position. I am tremendously grateful to Ron Dennis, Martin Whitmarsh, and Norbert Haug for the long-term support and guidance they have given me for so many years and for this wonderful opportunity.â€
On the back of his 2006 GP2 series title, Lewis is going into F1 high on confidence, and he paid tribute to the important lessons he had learned in his championship campaign last year.
“2006 was a fantastic year,†he confirmed. “A year in which everything I had learned through karting, Formula Renault and Formula 3 all came together in the GP2 series. I learned a great deal in GP2 and thank Frederic Vasseur and everyone at ART for their support. At the end of each year, I sit down with my manager and we review and evaluate the year and come up with a plan for the following year. 2007 will be no different to any other year. Once I have a plan, I always follow it to the end.â€
It is a plan which has led the young Briton all the way to his dream. And while he has now achieved his ultimate goal of racing amongst the finest drivers in the world, for Lewis, the real work is only now beginning.
“I know I have to work harder to be stronger mentally and physically and to prepare myself for whatever may come my way in Formula 1,†he states, “but I am ready, and relishing the challenge.â€
