Hamilton ready for McLaren?

Young gun Lewis Hamilton has taken another step towards securing a seat with McLaren on next year’s grand prix grid by capturing the coveted GP2 championship at Monza.

The 21-year-old is a McLaren protege, and this month will be given a full F1 test with the team to prove himself ready for the big time.

With Kimi Raikkonen confirmed at Ferrari for 2007, McLaren has a vacancy alongside new driver Fernando Alonso. “I’ve come a long way this season and feel I have learned a lot. I’m confident I’m now ready for Formula One,” said Hamil­ton. McLaren boss Ron Dennis was quick to praise Hamilton’s “exceptional talent”, and admits he could be willing to gamble on the rookie in 2007.

“We’re fortunate that Fernando is driving for us next year, which gives us a choice for a second driver. Clearly, Lewis is one option,” explained Den­nis. “He is getting better every day, a trend that has been constant during the past nine years, and he’s a deserving champion. The team’s and Lewis’s plans for 2007 will be announ­ced in due course.”