Hamilton upbeat about testing progress

McLaren appeared to have a slight edge over Ferrari on single-lap pace in the final pre-season test at Barcelona in Spain this week, although they may be slightly behind when it comes to race-distance runs.

Hamilton has said he is upbeat, however, about how McLaren's winter testing preparations have gone - especially the last week.

"Winter testing has gone really smoothly," he said in an interview with the McLaren website. "We have had steady reliability and the car is feeling good. We have had some great testing days, easily covering the mileage and getting confidence in the car."

Speaking about the final test he said: "It has been a good week, in addition to the test development programme we have been working with the race team on getting back up to speed with activities such as pitstops.

"As I just said, the car is feeling good, but as always we still have work to do. A Formula One car is under continuous evolution, and when you look back at how far we have come since the MP4-23 first hit the track in January, it is encouraging.

"The work doesn't stop for anyone just because testing has concluded."

Hamilton's delight at the progress over the winter has been echoed by teammate Heikki Kovalainen, who joined the team in December.

"We have improved the car, I have improved myself and I have gotten to know the team better," said the Finn. "Everything has just very positive; there haven't been any negative moments.

"Of course some days are more difficult than others but we are making progress all the time. So overall a very good winter and we have the pace to have a strong year."