Long flights no problem before Malaysia - Hamilton

Lewis Hamilton has played down concerns that returning to Europe this week is a less-than-ideal preparation for F1’s forthcoming Malaysia-China double header.

The McLaren driver, after finishing the Melbourne opener in second place, revealed he is flying back to the UK to watch his disabled 19-year-old brother Nicolas make his motor racing debut in the Renault Clio Cup.

Hamilton, 26, will then make the 12,000 kilometre return flight almost immediately in order to stay in the Asian timezone.

"It’s cool," he told British newspapers. "I’ll get to watch lots of movies on the plane. Physically, this is the best I’ve ever felt by a long way.

"I can’t miss my brother’s first race. I can sleep on the flight. I can still stay in this timezone," Hamilton insisted.

Looking ahead, he admitted that Melbourne winner Sebastian Vettel will surely have another competitive outing at Sepang next weekend.

"Malaysia is a massive downforce track so you’re going to see Red Bull as quick if not quicker. But I have no doubts our car can be competitive as well," said Hamilton.

Another Briton returning to the UK this week is rookie Scot Paul di Resta.

"I’m heading back because I have to prepare for Malaysia and China in the simulator as they are back to back," he told the Daily Mail.