Elated Hamilton hails fantastic weekend

The McLaren driver moved to the top of the championship standings after scoring his second win in three races in Canada, leading team-mate Jenson Button to the second consecutive 1-2 for the British squad.

A delighted Hamilton, starting from pole, admitted things could not have been better for him in Montreal.

"It has been a tremendous weekend, it has been fantastic," said Hamilton.

"I got here on Wednesday and things have gone so well. I've had incredible support from the fans, with so many Brits out here, which is great to see.

"The team did an exceptional job - it was one of the toughest races so far but that is what you want. I am very happy and proud of the team."

The Briton conceded rival Red Bull may still have the quickest car on more demanding circuits, but he is convinced McLaren will end up as the team to beat.

"We are doing everything we can to close gap to them," he added. "On other circuits where downforce is a bit higher they may be a bit ahead still, but I have no doubts we will close the gap.

"Clearly on race weekends we are doing a better job, but hopefully we can continue with that. This is a special day for me. I won my first grand prix here and to repeat it after three years is a real pleasure."

Hamilton, now two points ahead of team-mate Button, had to pass Ferrari's Fernando Alonso after the Spaniard emerged ahead following their first pitstop.

The duo nearly made contact as Hamilton was released when Alonso was in the pitlane, but the incident was not investigated.

"I think I came in quite a bit ahead of him, but clearly did not have the best pitstop," Hamilton said.

"I saw him being released and as he pulled away I saw him in my blind spot. All of sudden he was there with me, so we raced to the first corner and he got ahead. He had a great pace."