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UK deserves two races - Hamilton

ESPN Staff
June 29, 2012 « Renault unsure of alternator failure cause | London GP 'hypothetical' - Button »
Lewis Hamilton lost out to Jenson Button in a virtual race around London on Thursday night © Press Association
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Lewis Hamilton believes that two races in the UK "would be completely justified" if a London Grand Prix became a reality.

Hamilton was present at a PR event on Thursday evening which saw himself and Jenson Button racing around a track in London on McLaren simulators. Though a complete fantasy idea, quotes from Bernie Ecclestone earlier in the day had ignited thoughts that a race in London could happen, and Hamilton said that the UK's contribution to Formula One would justify a second grand prix.

"Some other countries have two races like Spain and Germany, and arguably the UK makes an enormous contribution to F1, so I reckon that would be completely justified," Hamilton said. "Silverstone is more than just my home race; it is a giant of a circuit, a real racer's track. The idea of a London race presents a completely different possibility and it would be great to reward our home fans with two races, wouldn't it?"

Hamilton also said that if the opportunity arose he would like to be involved in the designing of the circuit.

"A grand prix here would be the best thing in the world. They [the track designers] never approach drivers to have any input. But I would be very open to help in any way."

Looking ahead to the race at Silverstone next weekend, however, Hamilton said he didn't know if he was in with a chance of victory but liked that aspect of the current season.

"There have been so many different winners; it's very, very competitive. You don't know who's going to win but that's as it should be."

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