Lewis Hamilton: “I’m just going to try to enjoy it”

Lewis Hamilton says he’s determined to end the season on a high after his bad recent run of races derailed his title challenge.

Hamilton has had little luck since his win at Monza closed out the European season, retiring from the lead in Singapore and being hampered by mechanical problems in both Japan and Korea.

“One hundred per cent as always,” said Hamilton of his commitment this weekend. “And I’m just hoping things turn out a bit better than they have in the last three races, because it’s been pretty tough for us. I’m just going to try to enjoy it. It’s the last four races of the season, and obviously with this team, so I want to make sure I give everything.

“I’m hoping this weekend the car suits the track a little bit better, and I’m hoping that we don’t have any problems throughout the race, so we can just fight for points, fight in the race, try and get the best result possible.”

Regarding the 62-point gap to leader Sebastian Vettel, he said: “I don’t feel that that gap is particularly easy to close up, but it’s not impossible.

“If me and Jenson are able to deliver with the team a constructors’ championship, even though we don’t have a driver’s championship, that would be a fantastic way to end the season.”

Lewis also made an interesting comment on replacing Michael Schumacher next year.

“I’ve got very big shoes to fill. For me it’s an honour to be sitting in a car that he once sat in and a team that he drove for. When he was racing for Ferrari and winning everyone wanted to be able to sit in his seat. I’m doing that, but in Mercedes.”