Lewis Hamilton: It’s been a tough time

Lewis Hamilton has revealed he was determined not to allow his high-profile split from Nicole Scherzinger scupper his chances of becoming the first British driver to win back-to-back Formula One world championships.

Hamilton ended his long-term relationship with the American popstar ahead of the new season, and it was feared the 30-year-old’s off-track battles would disrupt the defence of his title.

But the reigning champion heads into tomorrow’s British Grand Prix holding a 10-point lead over Mercedes team-mate Nico Rosberg. He has started from pole at seven of the eight races and led a greater number of laps than any other driver this term.