Hamilton v Rosberg: Rnd 2posted in F106 | 06 | 2014
A FORTNIGHT AFTER the qualifying shenanigans in Monaco, Lewis Hamilton (pictured) arrived in Montreal for the Canadian Grand Prix insisting there are no lingering tensions with his Mercedes team-mate Nico Rosberg.
Hamilton — who has held talks with Rosberg, as well as his team — stated the focus has shifted firmly to the future.
"We spoke after the race and like friends, we have ups and downs," the 2008 world champ, who enters the weekend trailing Rosberg by four points in the drivers' championship after the German's win in Monaco, said.
"We have known each other for a long time, and it's done and dusted. We look forward to working together to help the team win the constructors' championship.
"Collectively with the team, me and Nico spoke and we individually spoke to the team, nothing has really changed.
"The team has done a great job in supporting us in the way it is run with Paddy (Lowe) and Toto (Wolff). Their support for both of us is great.
"We are full steam ahead. We had dinner together with the team yesterday and things are better.
Related: Mercedes duo in Monaco fall-out
"We are going from strength to strength. People have ups and downs so it is no different from years we have been racing together.
"We move on. There is a long way to go and we are looking forward to that battle."
However, Rosberg put a slightly different slant on the situation, admitting that handling his relationship with Hamilton had become more difficult.
We've always had periods where it was more difficult," Rosberg said, "but we have that base respect which goes back 15 years, and that is the important one.
"As a result we always discuss things and move on, and that is how it has been this time too.
"The relationship has not changed in any way — it is still the same as it used to be, so it's not different. But of course it is more difficult, that is clear.
"We are fighting every single race weekend. It is me against him and there is nobody else, so it definitely makes it more difficult. And there is more at stake."
Related: Mercedes boss — We'll sort out Monaco row
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Jim McGill