Hamilton ‘freshest’ he’s ever been ahead of new F1 season

DUBAI: Lewis Hamilton feels re-energized for the new Formula One season after the disappointment of losing the title to Max Verstappen on the last lap of the last race of the 2021 season. Hamilton, Verstappen and the rest of the F1 drivers began preseason testing in Barcelona on Wednesday, getting their first feel for the revamped F1 cars following major regulation changes to try to make the series more competitive. “I feel the freshest that I ever have,” Hamilton said.

“Of course, there are so many different ways you can re-focus and get re-centered, and I would say this (break) was one of the best I’ve ever experienced.” He said he regrouped by spending time with his loved ones in what he called “the best period of time I’ve actually ever had with my family.” “It was definitely more about being present and in the moment, and creating memories,” the 37-year-old Hamilton said. “I know sometimes in life, we get so focused and stuck into certain things like work that we forget to do those things. So it was a great time, just refreshing with the family.” Hamilton, a seven-time world champion, is going into his 16th season in F1.

He was one lap away from breaking a tie with Michael Schumacher for most titles at the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix when a crash behind him brought out the safety car and allowed Verstappen to eventually overtake him at end with fresher tires. Hamilton skipped the mandatory post-race news conference and also didn’t go to the season-ending gala. He had made just one public appearance a few days after the race when receiving his knighthood at Windsor Castle.