Lewis laps it up as Coulthard comes in last

Lewis Hamilton launched his Formula One career

yesterday with a stylish riposte to David Coulthard.

Coulthard had criticised McLaren’s decision to hand Hamilton a seat next season.

The Scot said: "They’ve given him his break way too soon. He will face a very tough time with Fernando Alonso as his team-mate."

Hamilton hit back on the opening day of winter

testing in Barcelona by being sixth fastest— with

Coulthard last of 16.

Hamilton, 21, said: "I respect David’s opinion. But I’m young, fresh and focused on doing the best job I can."

Ferrari’s Felipe Massa was fastest, while Super Aguri’s new British driver, Anthony

Davidson, was 11th. Honda’s Jenson Button sat it

out after fracturing ribs in a karting accident.