When the bar gets raised that high, you’re also exposed to some downsides and I had to deal with those as well. There were some non-finishes and to miss out on the world championship in Abu Dhabi was undoubtedly the lowest point.

My victory in Monaco was the most satisfying moment of the year. It’s such a tough venue and to win from pole position felt amazing. I had a brilliant battle with Robert [Kubica] in qualifying and Seb [Vettel] drove a good race to second, but I felt that race was going to be mine all the way through.

To win at Silverstone was another highlight. It was the first time both of my parents had been at a track to see me win. Mum’s been in Europe when I’ve won before, but she doesn’t come to all of the races.”