Lewis Hamilton is looking to “put things right” this weekend in Austria after he struggled at the same venue in 2014.
The Briton endured a difficult weekend, spinning during his Q3 lap, putting him down in ninth position for the start of the race. Whilst he managed to recover to second, he conceeded points to race winner and team-mate Nico Rosberg.
That’s something Hamilton wants to change this time round to extend his championship lead, which currently stands at 17 points.
“It was a great feeling to finally get back on top in Canada and add to the great memories I have there,” he said. “Now, though, it’s time to move on and put things right at a circuit I had a tough introduction to last year – Austria.
“Although I struggled in qualifying, starting down in ninth, it was actually a great race fighting back through the field,” he explained. “I think I was about fourth or fifth by the end of the first lap and then just kept chipping away to claw my way back to the podium, which was really good fun.
“Of course, I’ll be working hard to have a clearer shot at the win on Sunday.”
Meanwhile Rosberg expects Mercedes won’t have it all its own way, with rivalry from Williams – which secured a front-row lock-out last year.
“My first race at this track last year couldn’t have been much better,” said the German. “Of course, we didn’t have the ideal start in qualifying – but we nailed it on Sunday and it was great to get the win.
“I’m sure we’ll have some tough competition here once again with Williams and probably some others too.
“Of course, it’s a home race for Niki and Toto, too, so we’ll need to be on our best form for this one!”
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