How can Lewis Hamilton even be compared to Michael Schumacher at such an early stage of his career? He is nothing like the great German driver - and I don't think he ever will be.

Schumacher is a true legend of Formula One. Some say he was the best of all time, but I disagree with that. Though never a big fan of the German, he was a special driver and dominated the sport throughout his career with Ferrari. But he was boring, wasn't he? Or maybe that was just his typical German attitude to life and success!

Hamilton, on the other hand, is a breath of fresh air to the sport. His success in the 2007 season was a suprise to everyone and he made the headlines in numerous ways. He had problems with the British Press so he wanted to move to Switzerland to avoid the limelight. He had problems within the McLaren team in that he and Fernando Alonso didn't get on, and the team were also stripped all their constructors' points over a cheating row.

'Hamilton made me start watching the sport seriously again. I even enjoy the hour of build-up before the races now!'


Hamilton's first season in F1 was far from boring, both on and off the Grand Prix grid. He was part of a media frenzy, especially in the UK, where I for one had switched off many a Grand Prix before last season's antics. It was boring TV and a total sporting turn-off. But Hamilton made me start watching the sport seriously again. I even enjoy the hour build-up before the races now!

As soon as I realised the new season was on its way I started looking at all the stats, the new drivers and the quality of cars on offer. I was excited by the prospect of seeing the great youngster try to win the drivers' title that he so narrowly lost out on last season.

This year looks set to be a great season of driving and I'm looking forward to every single race. When Schumacher raced I was bored to tears sometimes. Sure, he was a good driver, but his car was also very dominant, which added up to a real turn-off. Maybe it was just because he didn't give the British drivers any chance of winning the championship - with the exception of Damon Hill who won in 1996.

The Schumacher years of 2000-2004 were good, but nothing compared to the excitement of 2007. In Malaysia this weekend, when both the McLaren drivers were accused of deliberately obstructing thier opponents and were moved down the starting grid, it only added interest to the race. A fifth-place finish early on Sunday morning keeps Hamilton at the head of the drivers' standings and, whatever happens between now and the end of the season, it will be exciting viewing for all F1 fans.

Hamilton is far from being boring and it is wrong for anyone to compare the youngster to Michael Schumacher in any way, shape or form. Let the driver be himself for a few more years. Why bother with the comparison?

His delight at the sight of the chequered flag in the season opener at Australia last week showed Hamilton to be equally as excited about the new season as the fans themselves. His wide smile and likeable personality make him a brilliant addition to the sport. Good luck in the season ahead - and don't worry, you'll never be as boring as the great Schumacher!