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Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton ‘enjoying’ elements of coronavirus enforced break


Hamilton says it is important not to waste the time the coronavirus lockdown creates

Lewis Hamilton says he is “enjoying” some aspects of Formula 1’s enforced break because it has given him time to refresh and revitalise himself.

The 2020 season is on hold until July because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Hamilton, said: “There have been times in the past five years that I thought a rest would be good for body and mind.

“For an athlete in their prime, it’s never a good thing to step away for a year but we have been handed a part-sabbatical, which I am enjoying.”

The 35-year-old added: “I feel fresher and healthier than ever.”

The world drivers’ champion, who will be bidding for a record-equalling seventh title once the season starts up, said not racing had been “a shock to the system” but that the lockdown was “almost a blessing on one side because it gives you even more appreciation for the things you love and do”.

He added: “And it has given me more energy and inspiration and determination to keep delivering and keep working with this great team. So I’m excited for the future.”

Hamilton, who was speaking in a video interview