Hamilton braced for testing times

LEWIS HAMILTON yesterday faced up to the stark reality of a season he believes will be “a steep, very tough challenge”.

The enormity of McLaren’s problems hit home, and although they had prepared the groundwork a month ago by announcing they were nowhere near quick enough, what transpired in Melbourne was still a shock.

In his 105 practice sessions since arriving in Formula One with a bang, Hamilton has only once previously finished lower than he did around Melbourne’s Albert Park.