Hamilton dumps the baggage

22/08/2012

Mat Coch writes:

Lewis Hamilton believes the rekindling of his form thus far in 2012 is the result of some winter soul searching. After a 2011 season filled with uncharacteristic mistakes and outbursts his 2012 campaign has been far more measured.

"Every year you finish the season and you try to analyse what you've been through and what you've done and take away the positives," he said. "Then you try to channel those and try to improve on the things you didn't do so well."

Known for his enjoyment of the rock and roll lifestyle, the 26-year-old has often felt the wrath of the media for his personal life. His high profile relationship with singer Nicole Scherzinger was in the news throughout 2011 with speculation suggesting it was beginning to impact on his racing.

Hamilton however claims that a winter spend strengthening relationships has allowed him to cast off some of the baggage which was holding him back this time last year. "I've fortunately dumped that in the dumpster and its all good now," he claimed. "I strengthened bridges and relationships between people not only in my personal life but also in my team.

"I've always said it's a combination, not just things you do at the track, it's things in your personal life and the balance that you have there; time at home, time with friends, these kinds of things," he added. "I don't have any problems particularly going on in my life, any baggage… whereas last year I had a big, big sack."