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F1 Canadian GP: Back to the beginning for revitalised Hamilton

Lewis Hamilton says his timely victory in the Monaco Grand Prix proves he is 'as strong as ever' as he heads to the scene of his first ever F1 win looking to build on his revitalised title challenge.

A hard fought first win of the season in tricky conditions at Monaco, coupled to a lacklustre seventh place finish for championship leading team-mate Nico Rosberg, has seen the Mercedes driver slash the German's advantage at the top of the standings to 24 points heading to the Canadian Grand Prix.

Marking his 44th career F1 win, Hamilton appropriately heads to Montreal - scene of his maiden F1 success back in 2007 - looking to use his confidence-boosting Monaco success as a spur towards reviving his title aspirations.

"I still can't quite believe I've got my 44th Formula One win. It's taken so much hard work from so many people throughout my career to reach this point - way too many to name - and it's a very special landmark for me and my family. I have to say how grateful I am to my mechanics for sticking at it and sticking with me after what's not been an easy start this year.

"It felt great to be back on the top step after a tough run and hopefully it was a big confidence boost for them too, because they've been doing a great job all season.

Despite his success in Monaco, Hamilton says he remains conscious of the 'swings' in fortunes for the Mercedes team, as well as the increasing threat from the likes of Red Bull.

"There's a long way to go yet, though. We've seen from these opening six races that anything's possible and these swings inevitably go both ways. We are the greatest team - but we have more pressure from our rivals than ever before, so it's important we keep pulling together and refining any weak areas.

"I've proven that I'm just as strong as I've ever been and I will be for the rest of the year, so I'm looking forward to the next chapter. Montreal has always been a good track for me, so hopefully I'm able to shine like I did the first time I went there in that great city atmosphere."

Zdroj: crash.net