Comments made by Lewis Hamilton in Melbourne have been interpreted by the British media as a sign the reigning world champion might consider leaving McLaren.

While admitting to reporters that even scoring points at Albert Park this weekend will be difficult, the 24-year-old Briton was asked on Thursday if the situation could lead to him shopping around for a better drive.

"I haven't had offers from other teams and I am not talking to anyone but I would listen to an offer if someone asked," he said. "It would be a compliment and it would be silly if I did not."

The quote was interpreted as an 'admission he could leave' McLaren (the Guardian), that he has 'doubts over future' (the Times), and a 'hint' that could 'alert Ferrari' (the Telegraph).

Hamilton, however, is under contract until 2012, and he has previously said he never intends to leave the Mercedes-powered team.

But he also admitted to reporters that, unlike last year's '8 out of 10' MP4-23 with which he won the drivers' title, the package he will race this weekend scores just a 'four'.

"I honestly don't know (why)," Hamilton admitted. "I think we focused so much on last year's car, we maybe left it a little bit late to focus on this year's car."

Source: GMM
© CAPSIS International

 

As he said, he would be stupid not to listen. What's the big deal? < not directed at you, Hamad.

 

I didn't see the big deal either the news IMO is that he rates the car that'll race in Albert Park 4/10 and that even finishing in the points will be a challenge........... I'm still not buying it though I reserve judgment until Qualifying after tomorrow ........... Finally F1 season is here

 

I would be surprised if he challenged the pole this weekend. If the car is at least reliable, a podium is likely if he qualifies respectably - no lower than 6th.

 

that car better suck, i took it off my fantasy team

 

I'm still not worried. I have no doubt that Hamilton will stick with McLaren (at least through the end of his contract) and although the car doesn't sound like it's up to snuff, in Lewis' capable hands, he'll still probably finish on the podium!

Practice coverage starts tonight at 1:30am on Speed!!!!!

 

i dont know about that, the best driver in the world still couldn't win in a force India car

 

To funny!

I don't see what the big deal is either, of course he would listen to any other offers that are on the table... still doesn't mean he is leaving.

There goes that crazy British media again

 

But he could probably win in a Brawn GP.

 

true, but at this point we believe that it is not the worst car on the grid.


also of course he would listen to anyone who wants to hire him, if someone comes and offers me 10x the money to switch jobs even if i dont want to leave i could use it to get more money from my current employer