Highlights

Hamilton still coming to terms with F1 life

(Reuters)
Updated: 2007-04-06 08:39

British driver Lewis Hamilton has described his new life in Formula One as an "out of body experience" after his impressive podium finish at the season opening Australian Grand Prix last month.

The McLaren rookie finished third behind Ferrari's Kimi Raikkonen of Finland and Spanish team mate Fernando Alonso in Melbourne and is hoping for another podium place at Sunday's Malaysian Grand Prix.

The 22-year-old admitted to journalists on Thursday that he was still getting used to the glitz and glamour of Formula One.

"I'm still relaxed about it all but it is a bit like an out of body experience," Hamilton said.

"It's like I'm sitting out there watching myself.

"Just yesterday in town, I saw a big poster of myself. It is a bit strange with all the attention. I grew up in racing with Nico Rosberg and we used to talk about how we would one day like to be in Formula One. Now we are here. It is incredible."

Hamilton will have to get used to the attention as he drives for a high-profile team alongside the two-time defending champion Alonso in one of the most glamorous sporting arenas in the world.

Alonso believes his younger team mate has the talent and ability to win races this season.

"For sure, 100 percent he can win races," Alonso said.

"A lot of things have to work out in terms of car and package but for sure, he has the potential to win a race."

Hamilton, however, prefers to keep his feet firmly on the ground and learn from his decorated team mate while, at the same time, trying to beat him.

"There is a possibility to win," said Hamilton, who led Alonso for several laps during the Australian race.

"But there is still a lot of work to do.

"It was good to see Alonso in my mirrors in Australia even though he finished ahead of me.

"I can learn a lot from him. We are in the same car and if I drive my best, I'm sure it will be close between me and him.

"The main thing for now is that we get some points for McLaren."