After a productive second testing week at the Circuit de Catalunya in Barcelona, Hamilton and Mercedes’ attentions have now turned towards the opening race of the 2018 campaign – the Australian Grand Prix which starts a week on Friday.
Although Hamilton didn’t have the softest tyre available during testing, he is pleased with how the new V09 model is shaping up.
The Brit is hoping to be crowned world champion for a fifth time and he can expect fierce competition.
And he has admitted he would like to see multiple race winners in the first few races of 2018.
“The more competition there is, the more fun it is to watch,” Hamilton said.
“I have grown up watching the sport, being a fan of it.
“The ultimate goal is that we hopefully have more teams fighting for the championship.
“I think there was one year where had six different winners in the first six races, or whatever it was. That’s only good for the sport.”
When asked where Mercedes’ likeliest title challenge will come from, he added: “I think Red Bull could be a real challenge this year.
“Their car looks great.
“I haven’t seen anything from what Ferrari have been doing, but for sure they’ll be good. It’s going to be exciting.”