While young drivers (Jaime Alguersuari) and Formula One veterans (Luca Badoer) were preparing themselves for the European Grand Prix at Valencia, Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button admitted they have fully enjoyed their second break from Formula One during the past 3 weeks. Both British drivers were present at the European Grand Prix press conference on Thursday, and admitted they spent some quality time with their girlfriends during the past few weeks.
“I spent some time with my family and then I spent the rest of my time in Los Angeles with my girlfriend (Nicole Scherzinger), so just chilling at home. I did go to the beach on two days in LA but the water is freezing, so I didn’t go in the water. And otherwise I did a bit of training and just good food,” admitted the McLaren driver who”ll be looking for back-to-back wins this weekend, following his success at the Hunagroring.
As far as Button goes, the Brawn GP driver and leader of the overall classification mixed “business” with pleasure, as he also participated in the London Triathlon two weeks ago. However, from his statement, we’re not quite sure what was more fun: spending time with his girlfriend or taking part in the triathlon.
“I spent a couple of weeks in the South of France with my girlfriend (Jessica Michibata) and friends. I did a triathlon as well in the UK which was quite fun, the London Triathlon. I did the painful bit then I had some fun,” added Button.
From all drivers present at the press conference, Luca Badoer was probably the only one who used most of the 3-week break to train for his Ferrari debut this weekend. Not that he didn’t have plenty of spare time during the past 10 years, but getting into shape for a Formula One outing after a decade outside the sport needs plenty of preparation, and Badoer admitted it himself on Thursday.
“I did not have a holiday. I just worked very hard in a physical way because after Felipe’s accident and Michael tried to drive the car it was very clear for us that, if Michael was not able, then it was my turn. I kept really concentrating and thinking about everything I could do to be in the best position for the race. I did really a lot of training,” said the 38-year old Italian.
