Hamilton boosted by three-race losing streak

Lewis Hamilton believes that his low-key conclusion to his championship winning 2015 season will only serve to boost his determination when he gets back to business in early 2016.

Hamilton was dominated by his flawless Mercedes rival as Nico Rosberg took command of the German team to end the year with three victories in succession.

Speaking at the manufacturer's annual Mercedes Stars and Cars event in Stuttgart, the three-time World Champion said he was unconcerned by his late season slump, viewed in his opinion as an opportunity to boost his prospects.

"I actually look at the last three races as a blessing in disguise," Hamilton said.

"It's kind of - if I'd have won the last three races, that would've been quite a lot of races won in the season. And perhaps I would have gone into next season with less of a buzz.

"But I actually have great determination, a great drive right now and I think that's come from having those results. In that sense, it's been a good thing."

Hamilton believes a combination of factors probably contributed to his end-of-season relative weakness.

"I'm sure it's a combination of things. Firstly, I don't ever take away from the fact that Nico did an exceptional job in those last few races - even actually from Singapore he did an exceptional job in qualifying.

"I think the change in the car seemed to suit him very well. And, you know, when the championship was done, I didn't let off - but I was subconsciously more relaxed, perhaps."

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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.

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