Hamilton feels ready for title this year

The British driver enjoyed a sensational rookie season with McLaren in 2007, leading the championship until the final race of the season in Brazil.

In the end Hamilton lost the title by one point, having held a 17-point lead over eventual champion Kimi Raikkonen with just two races to go.

The McLaren driver admitted on Thursday at Fuji that he did not fully understand the importance of the situation he was in last season, and he feels stronger as he bids to become the youngest champion this year.

"I think last year I was a little bit younger and so excited by the fact that I had just arrived in Formula One," Hamilton told reporters ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix. "So much was going on, the controversies, and so much to learn and take on board.

"I was leading here but I did not understand the magnitude of the situation I was in - and what was around me and the pressure that was on my shoulders. I dealt with it the best way I could, and it wasn't the best.

"I learned from those mistakes and I come here this year, having taking a big step in my personal life as a grown up, and as a driver I think I have matured as a driver, learned from my mistakes and working as hard as I can to improve in all areas.

"Just as a driver, in this part of the season I feel a lot stronger than I did last year in terms of my state of mind and my fitness. Last year, by this time of the year I was so exhausted because it was such a crazy season," added the Briton.

Hamilton, who arrives in Fuji with a seven-point lead over Felipe Massa with three races to go, insisted his focus is on the championship and that he is ready to drive for points when needed.

"Well, just from having the experience of last year of going into each race trying to win it and not really focusing on the championship," Hamilton said of last year.

"This year we are focused on the championship, and the importance of finishing races and scoring points for the team. This year being more of a team player is what we are doing."

The Briton admitted he was more relaxed approaching this weekend's race.

"Last year I felt a bit nervous. But I don't feel it this year," added Hamilton, who took a superb win in the wet at Fuji last season.