Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton, personally, will miss the Indian Grand Prix in the 2014 Formula One calendar. He wishes that it returns sooner than later.
As he geared up for the third edition of the Indian GP, Hamilton spoke about his affinity for the country, its race and India’s sports icon Sachin Tendulkar.
“India is such a big place and has so much to offer. At some stage I want to travel here.
“I am hoping to try some more restaurants with my family,” said Hamilton at an event to promote Petronas, one of the partners of Mercedes, here on Wednesday.
Hamilton hoped that the greatest spectacle of motorsport would return to the Buddh International Circuit (BIC).
“This is one of the greatest circuits in the calendar. The F1 calendar is changing every year and I am sure it will come back,”
Hopes to do well
The British driver, currently fourth in the drivers’ standings with 161 points, looked forward to a better performance over the weekend.
“Characteristically, the circuit is similar to Korea (where I finished fifth).
“Having the experience of racing in Korea, I can do things a little differently here.”
Hamilton, who switched from McLaren to Mercedes, was pleased to be part of the third-placed German team (which was 10 points behind Ferrari, 297, thanks to its strong cars).
“The experience has been fantastic. It was a huge step at the end of last year. It has given me an opportunity to put the skill and knowledge I gained in the last six years with a new team. Our goal is to finish second.”
Known for being outspoken, the 28-year-old, surprisingly, steered clear of controversy. Asked about Red Bull driver Sebastian Vettel’s journey to the top of the points table, Hamilton smiled and said, “I do not want to get into politics anymore. I grew up watching Michael Schumacher. He was a fabulous driver. Vettel is also doing very well. People want to see good contests, close races. That is what I look to do. All I want to do is race.”
Hailing from Britain and with his roots in Grenada, Hamilton had to have some familiarity with cricket. And with Tendulkar set to retire, the British driver had to face a question on the cricketing superstar.
“He is a legend here. I wish him all the best. I know the fans will miss him, because cricket is the number one sport in India,” said Hamilton.
