Lewis's new partner Heikki won't take back seat

Heikki Kovalainen comes to McLaren having proven fast but ragged in his rookie Formula One season with Renault but he believes he is up to the task of taking on last year's runner-up Hamilton.

"I will do everything I can to beat him," said the Finn.

"I don't think I was physically and mentally ready last year. I hadn't prepared well enough. But I've already changed things to make sure it doesn't happen again.

"I'll be turning up for the first Grand Prix in Melbourne in a car I feel fully comfortable in and know exactly how to set up. The increased confidence should enable me to have a good race."