Lewis Hamilton predicts tough contract talks with McLaren, but expects no problems

The 2008 world champion is out of contract at the end of the season and McLaren Group chairman Ron Dennis hinted in Canada that the economic situation will affect the pay it can offer Hamilton.

Both sides insist that there is no rush to conclude a deal, and Hamilton is optimistic that negotiations will go smoothly from now.

"Ron is a very tough negotiator," said Hamilton when asked about Dennis's comments.

"He was very tough when they negotiated the contract that they have now and I expect him to be the same when we go back in.

"But I don't see there being many problems, to be honest."

Hamilton has said several times that he does not want contract talks to distract him from his driving this season.

He leads the world championship off the back of his first win of the year in Canada two weeks ago. But despite wanting to add to his victory tally, he is willing to take a more calculating approach to ensure that he continues to score consistently.

"I still want to win every race," he said. "It is just that you have to be perhaps a little more strategic with your approach this year.

"We have seen seven different winners and both me and Fernando [Alonso] have scored in every race. But the championship is so close.

"I don't think there is too much of a different approach, but you have to be a little more sensible this year."