Lewis Hamilton described the summer break as “regenerative” when he met the media in the Scuderia Ferrari HP hospitality. “I think the break came at the right time. We’ve all recharged our batteries and we’re ready once again to push to the maximum.”

Quality time. Hamilton explained he hadn’t done anything out of the ordinary during the FIA’s mandatory shutdown. “I spent quality time with the people who matter most to me, clearing my mind of daily life and enjoying a breath of fresh air. I wasn’t looking for anything special, and my motivation is as strong as ever.”

Common purpose. “I’m very happy to be back with the team again,” Lewis continued. “Everyone has done a great job so far and we share a common goal: to keep making progress and achieve our objectives. Step by step, I’m sure we’ll get to where we want to be.”

Welcome back, Valtteri. Lewis was also asked about the news that his former teammate Valtteri Bottas will return to the grid next year with the Ferrari-powered Cadillac team. “I’m very happy for him. I think he’s a driver who really deserves to be on the grid and he has everything needed to help a new team take its first steps. I can’t wait to be racing with him again next year.”