Hamilton surprised by McLaren speed

The world champion, on pole at the European Grand Prix, had to push hard in the dying minutes of qualifying to beat his rival and friend Adrian Sutil, whose Force India team put on another sensational performance.

Hamilton admitted he was delighted to have the German driver alongside him.

"It was very close qualifying session and very happy to see Adrian up here," said Hamilton. "It has probably not been since F3 that we were in a press conference together and qualifying together.

"They (Force India) are incredibly fast and competitive, but our team did a great job this weekend. I was able to put the lap together. It's such a great feeling to put that lap together, the public have to imagine what it is like, it is the most exciting exhilarating thing.

"It is always like the first time so I am very happy."

The McLaren driver said his team had not expected to be so competitive this weekend, although he conceded strategies will play a big part tomorrow.

"I guess we have to wait and see what the strategies are for everyone tomorrow, but we feel quite comfortable and needed to be where we are," he said.

"I don't think we anticipated being as quick as we were this weekend. It is a bonus for everyone here, they keep pushing and have done a good job."

Hamilton also acknowledged the start will be crucial tomorrow, with the tight first chicane likely to cause trouble.

"It is, I've been quite fortunate in the two times I've started here. It's gone quite well and I am in best position to get around the first corner in a good spot and good condition.

"We have KERS which should help us, but we just want to get around the first corner and enjoy the race. I hope we can enjoy it as much as anyone else."