Hamilton labels 2015 ‘best year of my career’

Lewis Hamilton claims that 2015 has been “the best year of my career”, as the Mercedes driver hopes to secure his 11th season win at this weekend’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

The Briton entered the current campaign as reigning world champion and kicked off the defence of his title in fine style by dominating the opening round in Australia. Hamilton would never relinquish the championship lead thereafter, finishing only twice off the podium.

With team-mate Nico Rosberg unable to keep pace over the first half of the season and then suffering a pair of costly retirements in Italy and Russia, Hamilton was able to wrap up his third title at the USGP with three races to spare.

“Obviously all different experiences but it’s been the best year of my career,” Hamilton replied when asked to assess his own 2015 performance. “I’m in a very fortunate position with a lot of great work done by the team. One of the best races was Austin, probably the pinnacle of the year for me.”

Since then, Rosberg has had the upper hand though, winning from pole position both in Mexico and Brazil. Hamilton will look to reverse the trend at a venue where he enjoys a strong record.

Across the first six editions of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the triple world champion has claimed two poles and won twice, including last year’s title-clinching victory.

“This is a bit like a karting track with late braking and bouncing off the curves. You really have to throw the car around. It works to an aggressive driver style I guess. I have had some great experiences here.

“It’s always a good finale. You’ve got some good battles, the weather is always fantastic, there are great fans.

“I’m excited to be here on Abu Dhabi with the 44th UAE national day and I’m trying to win my 44th race, which I still haven’t done, so it’s cool how it all kind of ties in.”