Q+A Lewis Hamilton

Prior to the start of this week’s test session at Silverstone tomorrow, Team McLaren Mercedes has today conducted a shakedown with Lewis Hamilton at the Northamptonshire circuit. The shakedown has allowed Lewis to familiarise himself with the MP4-21, whilst conducting systems checks, before the British driver will have his first full day of testing with the team tomorrow. Here follows an interview with Hamilton after his first day.

"It has been a great day and it was super feeling walking into the garage this morning. I was fairly relaxed when I arrived but when you get on track and realise where you are and what you are doing, it is a phenomenal feeling."

"I was told a few days ago. I was doing some training at the McLaren Technology Centre when I was told and needless to say I was extremely happy."

"The feeling when I went out the first time was amazing. I was in my own suit, helmet and seat. My GP2 season is over and I could really focus on today and enjoy it 100 percent. Every time they started the car I just couldn't help smiling. I tried to be serious but I just had this big grin on my face. When you pull out of the garage for the first time it's a feeling I will treasure particularly as I know it will slowly fade as I become more familiar. I'm just living my dream at the moment."

"It really is too early for me to make comparisons as I was only shaking down the car today. The engine obviously sounds louder but also much cleaner and the shift is just so incredibly quick. I don't really know how good the brakes are yet but I'm sure I will find out tomorrow."

"I think the in and out laps today did help me to prepare for tomorrow, but I also think I would have been fine anyway. Today just gave me the opportunity to get a good start and get back into the swing of things and become comfortable with the controls in the car and also with the way the team work"

"I don't feel any pressure and the team have actually told me that there is no need for me to feel pressure. They just want me to get started and get some mileage under my belt. It has been a long and hard journey to get here and I really appreciate the opportunity. There is no pressure from anyone for me to go out and be quick straight away. I need to slowly build up my speed as I become more and more used to the car. The team has basically just told me that I have deserved this test and to relax and enjoy it."

"The opportunity to drive the Team McLaren Mercedes Formula 1 car just tops everything and I can't wait for the next two days."