New McLaren MCL33 'looks dope' says Hamilton

©McLaren

Lewis Hamilton have McLaren's new MCL33 contender two thumbs up yesterday as he responded to a message posed by former foe Fernando Alonso on Instagram.

McLaren unveiled yesterday its stunning 'papaya orange' racer which it hopes will lead its charge up the field in 2018 after three years of purgatory for the Woking-based outfit.

Alonso's message after shakedown: 'Good times are coming!'

A thoroughly impressed Hamilton posted his first impression of the striking MCL33 design.

"Looks dope bro, McLaren looking as it should," commented the four-time world champion and former McLaren driver.

"Looks good man, hope to be closer to you guys, see you in bcn [Barcelona]" responded an optimistic Alonso.

In the past, Hamilton often lamented the lack of success of the team which brought him his first world title in 2007 and expressed his wish to see McLaren and Alonso race at the front once again.

Be careful for what you wish for Lewis...

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.