Formula One

28th September 2006

Young gun Lewis Hamilton successfully completed his first full Formula One test for McLaren last week at Silverstone – and moved another step closer to securing a seat alongside Fernando Alonso on next year’s grand prix grid.

The newly crowned GP2 champion wasted no time outperforming current driver Pedro de la Rosa, and declared himself ready for the big time. “It keeps getting better,” said the 21-year-old Brit. “There is a steep learning curve, but I am just enjoying every single moment in the car. The feeling when I went out the first time was amazing.

“Whenever the mechanics started the car, I couldn’t help smiling. I tried to be serious, but I just had this big grin on my face. Pulling out of the garage for that first time is a feeling I will treas­ure – particularly as I know it will fade as I become more familiar with it. I’m just living my dream at the moment.

“I don’t feel under any pressure, and the team has told me there is no need for me to,” continued Hamilton. “The guys just want me to get started and do some miles. It has been a long and hard journey to get here, and I really appreciate the opportunity.”

McLaren isn’t expected to confirm its 2007 driver line-up until December. It will choose between Hamilton and de la Rosa, with second tester Gary Paffett an outside bet. If bosses plump for either of the two Britons, 2007 will be the first time the team has started a season with a rookie since Alain Prost made his GP debut back in 1980.