Red-letter day at Imola for Hamilton

LEWIS Hamilton admits he is excited to drive his first race for Ferrari in Italy but says his focus remains the same as for any other weekend.

- By SCOTT HUNT

The seven-time world champion takes to the track for the Scuderia at Imola this weekend, hoping the start of a European triple-header in the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix at Imola can help turn Ferrari's fortunes.

Hamilton is seventh in the driver standings after another tough weekend in Miami last time out, where he finished eighth and one place behind team-mate Charles Leclerc. With Ferrari widely expected to challenge for the title at the start of the season, it has been a difficult first six races for the team from nearby Maranello.

A home race represents an opportunity for Ferrari but Hamilton also acknowledges that expectation brings pressure.