Hamilton so cool as title race hots up

Huddersfield Daily Examiner (Huddersfield, England), Sept 12, 2008

Byline: By IAN PARKES Sports Correspondent

LEWIS HAMILTON feels his ice-cool composure will stand him in good stead for the heat of battle in this weekend's Italian Grand Prix.

Hamilton is refusing to let the events of Sunday's controversial race in Belgium have any effect on his preparations for the Monza showdown.

In fact, despite the outrage felt by his supporters, the 23-year-old admits he could not be more at ease right now.

Hamilton certainly gave off a relaxed air as he faced a barrage of questions relating to the 25-second drive-through penalty at Spa that resulted in him being demoted from race winner to third.

And he admits his mood has not changed much since he left the track soon after learning of his punishment.

"When you get out of the car the first thing you look forward to is getting back and seeing your team and celebrating with them," said Hamilton.

"There is always an amazing atmosphere, with everyone waiting for you and wearing the orangey-red (winner's) tops.

"You are back there with all your family, and it feels great, and we did have that feeling.

"But on Sunday I was kind of sidetracked a little because I had to go and do other things (visit the stewards).

"When I got back I sat in my room, and I knew what the situation might be and I was totally prepared mentally for it.

"I just chilled like I always do in my room.

I was probably the most composed person in the paddock.

"When I left the circuit I felt pretty good to be honest, although there was a bit of disbelief.

"It's always a driver's dream to win in Spa, and when you win in such amazing conditions and in such an exhilarating way, I was so excited and my heart was racing for those last few laps.

"I felt really satisfied with the job I did.

What happened is motor racing and it is to be expected sometimes."

DRIVERS' WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP 1 Lewis Hamilton (McLaren-Mercedes) pts 76, 2 Felipe Massa (Ferrari) 74, 3 Robert Kubica (BMW Sauber) 58, 4 Kimi Raikkonen (Ferrari) 57, 5 Nick Heidfeld (BMW Sauber) 49, 6 Heikki Kovalainen (McLaren) 43, 7 Jarno Trulli (Toyota) 26, 8 Fernando Alonso (Renault) 23, 9 Mark Webber (Red Bull-Renault) 19, 10 Timo Glock (Toyota) 15.

CAPTION(S):

ICE MAN: McLaren's Lewis Hamilton says he will not allow last Sunday's dramatic events in Spa to distract him at Monza this weekend