Hamilton insisted, though, that he was already much happier than he had been
towards the end of his 14-year relationship with McLaren.
His new three-year contract, estimated to be worth £60 million, allows him
more downtime, and he said he had spent his winter training and spending
time with the twin loves of his life; popstar girlfriend Nicole Scherzinger
and his new bulldog puppy, Roscoe.
“He’s my new best buddy,” Hamilton said. “I’ve got him a passport, and I’ve
asked Bernie [Ecclestone] for a pass, so hopefully he will travel to races
with me.”
Whether the new set-up proves a success remains to be seen. The paddock at
large remains sceptical about Mercedes’
ability to challenge for
trophies – certainly this season – and there were suggestions at yesterday’s
unveiling, subsequently batted away by team principal Ross Brawn, that the
new car looks a tad conservative. There is also continued speculation
regarding the management of the team, with Brawn’s own future up in the air.
Hamilton said he was not too worried. “I’m just happier here,” he said. “I
can’t really explain it. I’m happy I’ve got this massive challenge in front
of me. I’m happy I’ve got a fresh start. Happy with this new chapter in my
life. Everything feels fresh and new. I’m excited that I don’t know whether
the car will be good or bad.
“We are playing a long game here but I know we will have success together and
I’m excited to be a big part of making it happen. At the moment I only know
one word in German – wunderbar – but I hope I’ll be using it lots.”