Hamilton says he's focused despite Scherzinger split

Reigning Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton has played down suggestions his split from long-time girlfriend Nicole Scherzinger could affect his performance in 2015.

In the past, the often controversial and emotional Briton's personal struggles have arguably interfered with his focus on formula one.

But although he admitted that personal turmoil might have affected him in the past, Hamilton insists he now has the maturity to keep his eye on the track.

"I think last year I adopted a mental attitude that I would like to say is impenetrable," he told British reporters.

"Of course, in previous years it's been the case where it's affected my life in general, but I feel that I can still carry that kind of mentality from last year," Hamilton explained.

Meanwhile the Briton's latest split from Scherzinger might give his Mercedes teammate Nico Rosberg hope that Hamilton's career-topping form of 2014 is in doubt this year.

Indeed, before flying to Australia, German Rosberg visited the London office of F1 chief executive Bernie Ecclestone to pick up his 2014 pole position trophy.

Rosberg joked to Bild am Sonntag newspaper: "He also told me the result of this season, and I am very happy about it."