Lewis Hamilton admits there is an added edge to this year's championship battle due to the prospect of a reshuffle of the competitive order in 2017.
New aerodynamic regulations will see cars look significantly different to this year, while wider tyres will also lead to a reduction in lap times. Allied to convergence in power unit performance, next year could see the recent Mercedes dominance threatened and Hamilton is aware that makes it even more important to beat team-mate Nico Rosberg to this year's championship
“That definitely is a very good possibility but that puts even more emphasis on makings sure that we utilise this," Hamilton said. "If it is the last year I want to make sure that I maximise on it so there’s no shortcuts and there’s no rest really during the year.
"But you’ve got to enjoy it as well. It’s my 31st year in my life but it’s my ninth year I guess it is? And I’m enjoying driving more than ever so it’s really important to enjoy it because it’s going quick. 10th season and what I’ve got six more maybe or whatever it is and then I’m gone and that will go quick, because this 10 has really felt like its gone quick, so I’m going to make sure I enjoy it."
However, Hamilton is confident Mercedes has the structure in place to ensure it is still challenging for championships next season.
"Next year is going to be interesting, I think we’ve got a great team and we’ll continue it but it’s a race of who started first and maybe someone started first and hasn’t done a good enough job but… Hopefully we’ve started in similar times and I hope we are still in the battle, I’m sure we will be."
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