F1: McLaren hero Hamilton looking forward to Turkish Grand Prix in Istanbul

Last year's Turkish Grand Prix

WORLD F1 champion Lewis Hamilton is looking forward to next Sunday's Turkish Grand Prix.

The Hermann Tilke designed Istanbul circuit is a real challenge for man and machine.

Turkey is really all about Turn Eight - the high-speed, four-apex left-hander.

On a good day in qualifying, drivers take it flat-out.

Lewis Hamilton in Istanbul [Pictures courtesy of www.mclaren.com]

But racers need to take care of their tyres through the section, particularly the fronts.

Although the high-speed corner won't particularly suit Hamilton's McLaren, Lewis enjoys driving the circuit.

"I love racing in Turkey," said the 24-year-old from Tewin, in Herts.

"It's a real challenge because you need to attack the lap to get a good time, but you also need to be careful with your tyres.

Lewis Hamilton on the podium after finishing second last year in Turkey

"If you push too much, particularly through Turn Eight, then your tyres are going to suffer."

Hamilton added: "It's all about finding the perfect balance in practice and being disciplined in the race so you don't overdo it."

The best place to overtake in Turkey is into turn 12, the corner at the end of the back straight.

Here drivers can get a good tow and slipstream past,

This is one part of the track that Hamilton could use his KERS booster to good effect to gain a few extra seconds.