- Mercedes
No point worrying about other teams - Hamilton
Lewis Hamilton is not worrying about other team's seemingly making progress in Malaysia as he believes it would be a needless distraction from the work his team still needs to achieve.
Hamilton topped the first session, before dropping to fourth later in the afternoon, as it seemed that Ferrari and Red Bull had closed the gap slightly to Mercedes. Despite seeing other teams make improvements Hamilton is adamant he is only interested in what is happening in his own garage.
"I never do [focus on others]," Hamilton said. It's good that everyone is close, what matters is what happens tomorrow. It's all speculation, how do I know if I can win? I don't even know if I'll get round the first corner so we take one step at a time. I don't have a guess. I'm not just focussed on anything else, I'm just trying to focus on my side and try and make sure the car is comfortable underneath me."
Hamilton has not had to change his engine from Melbourne despite his early retirement, and he admits he can use that to his advantage.
"The race is the most important part so that's good. It saves us a few grid penalties today and I have less mileage on it than some others so hopefully that will work in my favour."
Several cars seemed to be struggling with degradation during Friday practice and Hamilton believes this will be a recurring issue in Malaysia if the rain stays away.
"It's the same as every time we come here. It's to be expected. It's too hot for the tyres, they aren't working very well in these conditions. The tyres do not feel great but that's the same for everyone."
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