Championship leader Lewis Hamilton hopes to add a fourth Chinese Grand Prix win to his racing record in order to bounce back from a challenging Malaysian weekend.

The reigning world champion had comfortably led home Mercedes team-mate Nico Rosberg in Melbourne’s season-opener but was defeated by Sebastian Vettel two weeks later.

Having to cope with high tyre degradation and so-so balance on race day, Hamilton did not have the pace to close the gap to his Ferrari rival around the Sepang International Circuit.

“Malaysia was a tough weekend,” said the 30-year-old Briton. “It always is with the heat - but with car problems on Friday, rain during qualifying on Saturday and a race which didn't go to plan on Sunday, this one was particularly challenging.

“I think ultimately we made the best choices we could - but there is always room for improvement and we've been working hard to analyse everything for the next race in China.”

A three-time victor in Shanghai (2008, 2011, 2014), Hamilton hopes he can return to winning ways as early as this weekend and increase the 3-point advantage he currently holds over second-placed Vettel in the Drivers’ standings.

“(Shanghi) is a different challenge to Albert Park and Sepang - but it's one I really enjoy and it suits my driving style quite well. I won the race last year and have only finished outside of the podium places twice, so the target is definitely to build on that and get back to the front.”

Click here for an interesting take on putting new drivers in third cars. 

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

Julien Billiotte

Recent Posts

Sainz left puzzled by double crash drama in rainy São Paulo

Carlos Sainz was left scratching his head after a disastrous Sunday at the Sao Paulo…

51 mins ago

Alonso pushed through agonizing pain to complete Sao Paulo GP

Fernando Alonso braved both physical agony and mechanical challenges in the Sao Paulo Grand Prix,…

2 hours ago

Alpine double-podium in Brazil could deliver $30 million windfall

Alpine’s remarkable double podium at the São Paulo Grand Prix with Esteban Ocon and Pierre…

17 hours ago

F1i's Driver Ratings for the 2024 São Paulo GP

Alexander Albon, Williams (Did Not Start): 5.5/10 Alex Albon is definitely going through something of…

18 hours ago

Jos Verstappen rips British media after Brazilian Max fest

Jos Verstappen wasted no time after his son spectacular win at the São Paulo Grand…

20 hours ago

Leclerc left with ‘mixed feelings’ after disappointing Sao Paulo GP

Charles Leclerc's weekend in Sao Paulo was unfortunately a stark contrast to Ferrari's recent triumphs…

21 hours ago