“Coming into a new season, turning over a new leaf, we really wanted to get off on the right foot. Ron [Dennis –
McLaren team principal] has been through a lot [and] so has the team, but we pulled through and it really shows in the results. I'm glad he's happy; it is an emotional feeling to win the first grand prix of the season, especially with all the winter testing, the whole build-up, not really knowing whether you had the pace of everyone else, whether you would be able to win, whether the cars could be reliable…when you come out on top it's a real relief and great satisfaction.
“I guess I've put more pressure on myself this year. I think this win perhaps feels better than any because I feel I'm improved in many areas, but I wouldn't say it's the perfect win. I would say there are a lot of areas I can improve, but I think in terms of managing my tyres, controlling my pace, confidence and being comfortable in the car, it's probably the best race I've had so far.
“Going into the next few races, we obviously need to try and continue with the momentum that we have. As I said we could have gone quicker, so I am not particularly bothered about the Ferraris' pace.
BMW and
Williams have done a great job as well, so the team needs to keep on pushing as will I.
“[The heat] was great preparation for Malaysia, and I am really looking forward to it. I really hope we will have a great result again; we just have to keep our cool. Bring it on!”
