Mar.26 (GMM) Lewis Hamilton on Thursday played down British media speculation that he might consider leaving McLaren.
In Melbourne for his first race as world champion, the 24-year-old Briton was quoted as admitting he "would listen" to offers from rival teams."It would be a compliment and it would be silly if I did not," said Hamilton, who is expected to struggle to qualify in the upper half of the grid.The quotes were interpreted as an "admission he could leave" McLaren (the Guardian), that he has "doubts over future" (the Times), and a "hint" that could "alert Ferrari" (the Telegraph).But he later clarified: "I am happy where I am."It (the speculation) doesn't really have any grounds. All I said was that it's quite cool if you find out other teams are interested in you. It's good to know you are wanted."I honestly want to see out my career with McLaren. I do feel it's my family, it's where I am right now and it's where I'm happy," Hamilton added.
