Hamilton: « Without regret about my season »

McLaren driver Lewis Hamilton insists that he has no regrets about the way his F1 debut season unfolded, despite losing the title by one point.

The 22-year-old young man was poised to become the youngest rookie to be crowned world champion after just a year of driving. But the fairy tale turned into a nightmare over the last two races due to mistakes on his part and McLaren’s, as well as a technical failure.

He finished the season one point behind Kimi Räikkönen’s Ferrari and tied on points with his McLaren Mercedes teammate, Fernando Alonso.

But despite the defeat, Hamilton emphasized that he has no qualms about the season that just ended and promised to be even stronger next year.

« Without regrets, » declared the Briton this Monday, October 29.

I have never lived with any regrets, I believe that this is certainly not the right approach.

« I think it was a phenomenal year, and I am very, very proud to have accomplished so much this season. And I am happy because I will have another opportunity next year to win, and I will work even harder, » he added.

« Twelve months ago, I was wondering if I could even be an F1 driver, and if I would be able to do it, or if I would be able to do a good job. »

« And obviously, it was extremely fast like a roller coaster because all of a sudden I found myself in the position I am in today, which is world No. 2. So it was a great year. »

« That was a very strange experience, » continued Hamilton. « I was a bit stunned because you don’t really see what’s happening, you just have to take things as they come. And, you know, I quite enjoyed it. »

Asked if he can clinch the title in 2008, Hamilton replied: “I think I can, obviously, otherwise there is no point in racing in 2008.”

« I think we are going to have a great car that will be very efficient. I will be more experienced, I will make sure to be even more difficult to beat. I will be even more determined next year, » he promised.

Hamilton made his first public appearance since the Brazilian Grand Prix, at the Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children in London.

Hamilton launched a new partnership between McLaren and the English public service in support of the hospital. This year of Charity will see 16,000 civil servants in the United Kingdom raise money throughout 2008 to help fund research on the causes of childhood cancer.

Hamilton visited cancer patients in the oncology ward and shared some special moments with them by playing video games together, for example.

« It’s a strong relationship we have just created with the Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospital, I am really happy with the support I am providing. I am eager to help them raise the necessary funds, » said Hamilton.

« Being able to fulfill certain wishes of children receiving treatment at Great Ormond Street is quite a special experience. »

« It is a privilege to be able to bring a small piece of F1 excitement into the common room, seeing the smiles it brings and having fun with the children and their families. »

« I met a couple of supporters, so I am very happy, » he concluded.