Hamilton hopes to avoid F1 politics

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McLaren driver Hamilton became "frustrated" with the well-documented events off the track which often overshadowed his own sterling efforts in finishing runner-up to Ferrari's Kimi Raikkonen. And there are doubts as to whether Hamilton can compete in next year's championship because of question marks over the validity of his car.

Hamilton, who finished runner-up to boxer Joe Calzaghe in the BBC Sports Personality of the Year awards on Sunday, said: "(Formula One) has been an amazing rollercoaster and I am very happy and proud to have been part of it. But in terms of all the politics, it has been frustrating in that sense. I am just a racer."

The 22-year-old believes he has the ability to win the world crown although he is refusing to predict if that will happen during the forthcoming campaign.

He added: "I love to go to the tracks and drive. I don't like to get involved in all the politics but unfortunately you are dragged into it.

"That comes with the whole game and you just have to deal with it in the best way you can. Hopefully next year we will have a much smoother year and can have fun."

Hamilton led the 2007 title race from mid-May only to be pipped by one point by Raikkonen after a disastrous final race in Brazil.

But he insisted: "There is no frustration about last season whatsoever and it is just about being proud of what I achieved.

"I'm pretty happy with coming second in my first year. I need to continue working hard. I am still in the very early stages of my career and I feel very confident and optimistic. I can't wait until next year and I hope we can get the championship. It is going to be a tough year, for sure.

"I can't say I will win it next year but I believe I have the ability to win and I believe being in the right place at the right time and, with hard work and dedication, it is possible."