Hamilton not calling Verstappen his biggest rival: "We'll see"

Solving problems

"I think we are in the best possible shape, knowing that we only had three days of testing," Hamilton sounded positive during the press conference in Bahrain. "We are working to find out what problems we had or didn't have. The engineers are working around the clock to understand everything. It will be a constant battle to get the car where it needs to be."

For Mercedes at least, the start of the season will be more exciting than in recent years. "Right now we are not the fastest and how are we going to make sure we get faster. I like the cooperation within the team to achieve the common goal."

Title fight with Max Verstappen

There has been speculation by fans and analysts for weeks about a title fight between Hamilton and Verstappen, something the Briton is reluctant to comment on. "We'll see that when the season starts. I think there are several teams who will be very strong." He does expect the battle to be more exciting than last season. "It's going to be a hugely challenging year for our team."

Not retiring yet

Hamilton currently only has a one-year contract with his team, but that doesn't mean he will retire after this. "I wanted a one-year deal. I told Toto that we want to continue working together. I am fully committed to this sport. There are many steps we are making in F1. I love what I'm doing. I come here more excited than I've ever been."

"I don't feel like this is the end," the world champion continued. "I think this is going to be a very exciting season and there are some exciting rules coming up next year. I don't think I'll do that personally. I don't stop when things get difficult."