Lewis - Consistency the key

Valencia circuit expected to produce overtaking

Last updated: 22nd August 2008

Hamilton: championship leader

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British Formula One sensation Lewis Hamilton reckons consistency over the closing races will be the most important factor in winning this year's world title.

Following a three-week summer break, the F1 circus gets under way again on uncharted territory in Valencia for Sunday's European Grand Prix.

Circuit organisers have created a new street track which winds its way around the Juan Carlos I marina.

Unlike Monaco's street circuit, which is notoriously slow and almost impossible to pass on, the 25-corner, 5.440km circuit in Valencia is fast - with a top speed of 200mph achievable - and features overtaking opportunities.

With seven of the 18 grands prix remaining, Hamilton is aware one asset above all others will serve him well if he is to clainm his maiden world title.

Intense

"Looking back at the season so far, it feels like a different championship compared to last year as 2007 was very intense and consistency was incredibly important," said the 23-year-old, who leads the drivers' standings by five points.

"This year, everybody's results have been more varied and every driver who has won a race has also failed to score on at least two other occasions.

"That's made getting strong results even more important, but I think we'll see consistency becoming crucial as we head towards the end of the season.

"But I'm wary of making predictions - the race in Hungary showed just how unpredictable Formula One can be, and that's one of the reasons why it's such a fascinating sport."

Hamilton finished fifth in Hungary, with victory going to his McLaren team-mate Heikki Kovalainen ahead of second-placed Timo Glock who claimed his first podium finish.

Anybody's guess

As a Formula One wheel has yet to burn rubber on the Valencia track, it is anybody's guess as to who will triumph this weekend.

Hamilton is naturally hoping he is the man on the top step of the podium, a win that would see him stretch his current five-point championship lead.

"Clearly, I am still in a good position to challenge for the world championship, and that remains my aim," he said.

"We still feel confident about our chances - we know our rivals will be strong, but we've worked hard to improve the car and are confident we'll be competitive this weekend.

"The most important thing is to finish consistently in the points."