Hamilton and Button target Abu Dhabi success
Last Updated: November 5, 2011 11:02am
Button (left) and Hamilton: upbeat ahead of Abu Dhabi grand prix
McLaren drivers Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button are both determined to put together a strong finish to the season.
With Red Bull's Sebastian Vettel having secured his second world title at the Japanese grand prix in early October, the remaining four races of the season lost some of their edge.
"Red Bull and Sebastian [Vettel] may have clinched both championships (drivers' and constructors'), but I'm still determined to end the season on a winning high," declared Hamilton.
"I've won two grands prix this year, and I'd love to double that by the end of the year. It would also be a great reward for everybody at Vodafone McLaren Mercedes."
The Briton, who endured another headline-grabbing race in India last time out where he once again tangled with Felipe Massa, is confident that the MP4-26 will do well at the Yas Marina Circuit.
"I think we've got every reason to be confident for Abu Dhabi. This circuit should really suit the characteristics of our car - we should be able to capitalise on the layout to maximise the benefit of DRS and KERS, both of which are very strong on our car," explained the 26-year-old.
Exciting
Like Hamilton, Button is eager to add to his tally of wins and is upbeat after his second place in India.
"It's usually been quite difficult to overtake here, especially last year, but I think that DRS will change all that," said Button.
"The back straight is one of the longest in Formula One so I expect to see a lot of action there. It would be great to see the new rules turn this circuit into a place where overtaking is more common and more exciting.
"Our car should suit this circuit so I'm very optimistic. We saw at the last grand prix that even though we didn't have the ultimate speed to catch and pass Sebastian, we made him work hard for the win.
"Tactically, Vodafone McLaren Mercedes ran a first-class race: I got all the right calls from the pit wall and the pit crew did a fantastic job.
"The championship may not be at stake any more but we're still aiming to win races and put on a tremendous show."
Credit: Sky Sports (www.skysports.com)
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