But he was at least able to acknowledge a job well done on his part in
contrast to his recently troubled past.
“I think today was a very strong drive. I am proud of myself for keeping it
together, not making mistakes,” said Hamilton. “If you’re not leading
the race, in judging yourself and how much pressure you are being put under,
today was the ultimate test for me.
“Having Mark breathing down my neck every second, if I had slipped up in turn
one – ever – he would have been past me and gone.
“If I had slipped up anywhere then he would have been gone, but I didn’t do
that on one lap, and he was on my tail for 30 laps or something.
“So I’m very happy I kept my head together, stayed focused all weekend and out
of trouble, which was a big positive for me.
“For the last five races I’ve not been anywhere near this position, so it
feels good to be back.”
Whitmarsh was also naturally thrilled to see Hamilton back up where he feels
the Briton belongs as he said: “I think Lewis’ drive today was utterly
inspirational.
“He may be downplaying it because he’s a perfectionist and wanted to win, but
to withstand such enormous pressure, for lap after lap from a faster car,
was a drive absolutely worthy of the great champions.
“His finishing position may only go down in the history books as another
second place, but make no mistake, this was a fantastic drive, beautifully
assured and perfectly judged.”
Hamilton conceded to making only one small mistake when he allowed Vettel an
easy overtake on lap one.
However, he appreciated it would only have been a matter of time anyway before
the German slipped by given the speed of the Red Bull.
The 26-year-old, however, is naturally hoping this is a platform for the final
three races, and is adamant his self-belief remains high.
“I’ve always felt confident in myself,” asserted Hamilton.
“But regardless of how much negative talk there is around the world, I still
rise above it, which is the key to success.
“Every sportsman, every human being has tough times, but I just keep my head
down, and I have this weekend.
“Even though I went back one place, I still finished high up. It’s first of
the losers, but still, it’s a better place to be than anywhere else.”