For the past two seasons, since making his debut in formula one, Hamilton has been in contention for the drivers’ world championship at the final rounds of the seasons in Brazil.
This year, a delay in the development of their 2009 contender the MP4-24 meant McLaren started the year with a three second deficit to the front-runners, taking the team out of contention for the title.
But, the reigning world champion, who secured the 2008 championship with an overtaking move on Timo Glock in the final corner of the final lap of last year’s Brazilian grand prix, says he is relieved not to have any of the pressures he experienced in ’07 and ’08 this time around.
'I’m really looking forward to this year’s Brazilian grand prix – it will be the first time I’ve travelled to Sao Paulo without being in contention for the world championship, and I’m actually looking forward to taking in a bit more of the city and relaxing and enjoying the experience of driving on one of the world’s greatest racetracks,' said Hamilton.
'One of the greatest things about racing at Interlagos is the crowd.
'There’s such a great atmosphere; the fans have so much energy and life. It’s a party while you’re working, and it’s great to see everyone happy.'
And McLaren team principle Martin Whitmarsh is also excited about returning to a circuit that holds such great memories for the squad.
'Nobody on our team will ever forget the dramatic final laps of the 2008 Brazilian grand prix – they are memories that will live with us forever,' said Whitmarsh.
'Of course, the defining moments of the last two world championships have both taken place in Brazil and, as a result, the race has become an unusually colourful and intense occasion for us. ¿
'Travelling to Sao Paulo this year with our focus solely on achieving the very best result will allow us to attack the race weekend without any additional considerations, and we are very much looking forward to that challenge.'
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