Hamilton a wiser man after year of learning

SAO PAULO, Nov 24, 2011 (AFP) - Lewis Hamilton said Thursday that he will be stronger in 2012 thanks to his 'year of learning' in 2011. The 26-year-old Briton has endured a rollercoaster year of incident and controversy with his McLaren team.

He said: "I was talking to a friend recently saying its been a difficult year, and he said it's been a year of growth which was one of the most positive things I have learned this year.

"It really has been. What I've learned this year I'll take into next so I feel positive about it. I think in the future I'll look back on this season, smile and say 'I needed that'.

"I haven't really thought about the last victory in Abu Dhabi - afterwards I was just back in the simulator and thinking about this race.

"But I have had a really good few positive days since then which have meant more to me than the race win, so I have got a lot of positive energy at the moment."

Hamilton is one of the favourites for Sunday's season ending Brazilian Grand Prix, but admitted he has more of an eye on next season than this weekend.

"There is only one driver who has won more this year - Sebastian (Vettel) - so it could be worse, but it could also always be better. If I look back on this year, while it's not been a year I have won the most Grands Prix and the championship, it has been one where I have learned quite a bit.

"I think I will come out stronger. I can't say I am there yet, but when I get to the winter and reflect on the whole season I will.

"I'm definitely a lot wiser than when I started the season and that's always a positive.