Hamilton hopes new helmet helps Monaco chances

Lewis Hamilton is hoping a new helmet design will lead to a change of fortune ahead of what he believes could potentially be "the most exciting and unpredictable Monaco Grands Prix for many years."

Hamilton has always been synonymous with a yellow helmet as sported by hero Ayrton Senna during the three-times champion's illustrious career.

For the previous three races around the principality, specialist jewellers Steinmetz have provided the McLaren drivers with diamond-encrusted helmets.

This year, though, it sounds like Hamilton has something a little different up his sleeve as he is refusing to give the game away just yet.

"I'll be wearing a specially-painted helmet for the occasion," said Hamilton on this year's race at Monaco.

"When you see it you'll know why I'll be hoping for it to swing the odds in my favour."

Appreciably, a repeat of his 2008 victory will come down to more than just the colours on his helmet, but after Hamilton's run of problems this season, any psychological trick could help.

Hamilton sustained his latest blow in Barcelona on Sunday when he crashed out on the penultimate lap when running second courtesy of a suspected tyre rim failure.

Monaco, though, is his favourite venue, however the weather looks like playing a major role as rain is predicted throughout the week.

Hamilton feels that will only add to the drama and the show, which he is looking forward to.

"I love the Monaco circuit," added Hamilton.

"It's the greatest track in Formula One, and my victory there in 2008 is still probably my best win in Formula One, and one of the greatest moments in my career. It was an incredible day.

"In 2008 it was wet, and looking at the week ahead, the weather also looks extremely unpredictable, with heavy rain forecast for much of the week.

"Even if it doesn't rain on the Sunday, the possibility of heavily disrupted practice and qualifying sessions means we'll probably go into the race with a chance of one of the most exciting and unpredictable Monaco Grands Prix for many years.

"That would be fantastic because with just a single stop in the race for tyres, there's going to be less opportunity for strategy to play a role in deciding the outcome, unless it rains of course.

"That means qualifying will be more important than ever, and we're still working hard to improve our qualifying pace.

"But I think Monaco is a place where the input of the driver is more important than at any other track, so I'm pretty confident we'll be able to do a good job."