Hamilton would 'love' Alonso challenge

Hamilton's performances this year in GP2, especially his double victory at the Nurburgring, have propelled him into contention to land the second seat at McLaren next year.

His career is overlooked by McLaren boss Ron Dennis and the team have admitted that it would not be impossible for them to promote the youngster into their outfit for 2007 if Kimi Raikkonen leaves.

Speaking to The Guardian on Tuesday, Hamilton said that he would be ready for the challenge of being Fernando Alonso's teammate next year, although he thinks it more likely that he will be loaned out to another outfit.

"If Kimi's smart he'll stay at McLaren," said Hamilton, "(although)...it gives me a much better chance if he does go.

"But look at Alonso. He started at Minardi, so I expect to do something like that [being loaned out]. But if I end up alongside Alonso it definitely would not intimidate me.

"I've never had a teammate who's beaten me over the course of a season. So I would love that challenge."