Hamilton surprised by stunning debut

The British driver finished third in his first Grand Prix in Melbourne and went one better in Sepang, where he was second behind McLaren teammate Fernando Alonso.

Although Hamilton has triumphed in every series he has raced in, the 22-year-old admits he has been taken by surprised by his strong debut.

"I think for sure I think anyone would be surprised to be in my position," Hamilton told a press conference ahead of the Bahrain Grand Prix.

"To be given the opportunity to be in such a good time, it was a surprise and a privilege to be where I am.

"And I think I already have a huge amount of respect from my rivals. Once you are out on the track your friendship grows and your respect grows. It has been tough, but I have had luck on my side, I have been in the right place at the right time."

Despite his impressive debut, Hamilton is downplaying the chances of scoring his maiden win, and reckons he still has a lot to learn.

"I think you have to put things perspective," he said. "Yes, I have two podium finishes but I still have a lot to learn. I know you guys may not like it, but there is a huge amount of learn from Fernando and the team.

"There are some major challenges that might take me by surprise, but I may be fortunate enough to have prepared for them better and I might take them smoothly.

"I don't plan to make any mistakes, that is not the expectations. I am working as hard as I can, you have very little opportunity in this game. It is all about maximizing your opportunity and I am someone who does it."