Hamilton 'happy' at McLaren

MUMBAI, Sept 17, 2012 (AFP) - Lewis Hamilton insists he is happy at McLaren and believes the Formula One team can deliver success this season but the British driver says he has yet to make a decision on his future.

The former world champion, whose contract with the British-based outfit expires at the end of the 2012 season, acknowledged rumours linking him to the rival Mercedes team, with Michael Schumacher expected to retire at the end of the season.

But Hamilton, 27, speaking on a visit to India, spoke warmly about his long relationship with McLaren, with whom he won the 2008 drivers' championship.

"There have been a lot of speculations and rumours about my move to Mercedes but I am happy with McLaren," he was quoted as saying by the Times of India.

"We have a great car and we are in a position to challenge the top teams. We are definitely in with a chance to win the championship," Hamilton added.

The Briton, who was in Mumbai for a sponsors' event ahead of next month's Indian Grand Prix in New Delhi, said he would not be rushed into deciding on his next step.

"No, I haven't committed to any team as yet. I don't have a timeline either.

"I won my first world championship with McLaren (in 2008) and I am happy with their background, the people and environment there," Hamilton added.

Hamilton currently lies second in the drivers' championship behind Spain's Fernando Alonso after victory in the Italian Grand Prix at Monza, his third win this year.