Lewis Hamilton shakes off illness to realise childhood dream

Lewis Hamilton intends to climb off his sick bed to realise a childhood dream with a first victory on the native soil of his hero Ayrton Senna in Sunday’s Brazilian Grand Prix.

The three-time drivers world champion delayed his arrival in Brazil by 24 hours on Wednesday on doctors’ orders after falling ill, but his Mercedes team made clear he has every intention of racing for his first win in Brazil at the ninth attempt.

“It was a dream of mine to race in Sao Paulo when I was younger,” he said. “I always feel his (Senna) presence when I am there — it is a very special race for me.

“It’s amazing to think that it took Ayrton eight attempts to win this race and it’s one of the few that I haven’t won yet myself so, if I can change that this weekend, it would be a salute to him and another highlight to add to this amazing year.

“I will be going all out to make it happen.”Hamilton was due to take part in a news conference on Wednesday, but had to cancel due to illness after being advised not to fly by doctors.

“He’s arriving a day later than scheduled, as he was unwell,” said a Mercedes spokesman, who quashed local reports that the champion was not fit to race. “But he will be here tomorrow (Thursday).”

Hamilton has secured only two podium finishes here, but where, in 2008, he claimed his maiden title with a dramatic last corner overtaking move that secured fifth place.

His Mercedes team-mate German Nico Rosberg, who won last year, wants to add to his victory in Mexico with another win and a fifth straight pole position. “I want to win again,” said Rosberg.