MARCH 19, 2016

Pundit questions Hamilton's podium chances

The pundits are split over whether Lewis Hamilton's controversial off-track lifestyle will end his dominance of formula one.

The pundits are split over whether Lewis Hamilton's controversial off-track lifestyle will end his dominance of formula one.

When asked to predict the podium in Melbourne, the flamboyant broadcaster for German television RTL, Kai Ebel, told Bild: "Rosberg, Vettel, Verstappen.

"We can see that Lewis Hamilton has been a little distracted," he explained, referring to the Mercedes driver's colourful and controversial pre-season activities.

Colleague and former driver Christian Danner, however, defended Hamilton's lifestyle and EUR 35 million per year salary.

"It matters only what he does in the car, and as long as he is performing at his best, for me it doesn't matter if he's drunk every other day," he said.

Indeed, Hamilton has been strong so far through the practice sessions in Melbourne, telling a group of British reporters on Saturday that he is fully motivated for 2016.

"I'm here in the same spirit as last year and want to win," he insisted. "I don't have to search for motivation. It is my DNA."

(GMM)