Trouble for Hamilton off-track?

While Mercedes enjoys a hugely impressive start to pre-season testing, it seems all is not perfect in Lewis Hamilton’s world…

Reports in the British press suggest Hamilton has split with long-term girlfriend Nicole Scherzinger, citing Hamilton’s unwillingness to propose. The actress, singer and television star was a prominent figure in the F1 paddock on occasion last season, most notably in Abu Dhabi where Hamilton won his second world championship.

The pair have endured an on-off relationship over the last seven years, with Hamilton admitting in an interview with The Sunday Times Style Magazine in December that their respective careers meant they had no plans to get engaged.

“We’re in a good place. She's such a hard worker, and we inspire each other. But I don't think we've ever really discussed marriage,” Hamilton said. “We're very much aware of the time together, and how precious time is. I think naturally, at some stage, that becomes a step. But we're trying to support each other while we do things we love.”

It remains to be seen if the reports will affect Hamilton - who has previously admitted: “I wear my heart on my sleeve” - heading in to the 2015 season as the defending champion.