Lewis Hamilton: Valencia clash with Pastor Maldonado won't change approach

The McLaren driver was trying to fend off Maldonado's Williams as his tyres faded in the closing laps of the European GP in an incident that left Hamilton in the barriers and resulted in a penalty for Maldonado.

After the race Maldonado suggested that Hamilton should not have fought so hard given his tyre situation, while McLaren team boss Martin Whitmarsh intimated that Hamilton should have made more allowances for Maldonado's aggressive reputation.

"I am sure in hindsight you have to say that dealing with someone like that you have to take a different approach, but you cannot anticipate it," Whitmarsh said.

But Hamilton said that while losing a podium in those circumstances in Valencia was disappointing, it did not leave him feeling he should do anything different.

"Sometimes you have to accept when things don't go your way in racing," he said.

"Obviously it was frustrating to lose out so close to the finish, but that's motor racing: you put it behind you and move on to the next race - which, happily for me, is at my home circuit of Silverstone.

"It doesn't really alter the way I go racing because I race to win, and that's what I'll be doing, especially at my home grand prix."

The 2008 Silverstone winner said he was as determined as ever to provide another home triumph for the British fans.

"I know we can count on the fans to bring a totally unique atmosphere," said Hamilton. "We're going to give it everything we've got, put on a great show.

"This is an incredible summer of sport for Britain and I want to play my small part in bringing some joy to fans. I will be doing everything possible to get a win for my country on home soil."