Lewis Hamilton should be immensely proud of his performance in the Korean Grand Prix, claims his team boss Martin Whitmarsh.
After another tough weekend for Hamilton, whose off-track demeanor prompted speculation about his mindset, the Briton delivered a great drive in the race to hold off a determined Mark Webber to claim second place behind Sebastian Vettel.
Although there was again little emotion from Hamilton after the race, Whitmarsh reckons that inside his driver will be satisfied with what he was able to produce.
"He wanted desperately to win," said Whitmarsh. "He has had a lot of speculation about him and his private life which he doesn't want, and doesn't welcome I am sure. There is some pressure of expectation on him.
"I think he actually is a sensible, rational individual, so he will look at what he achieved today and it was truly fantastic. I don't know how many people here, 30 laps to go, thought he was going to hold on to second place? Behind him there was a car with a determined driver like Mark, which was clearly quicker at that point, with a DRS that he didn't have. So to be able to defend was impressive.
"That was an absolutely stirring drive and I think he should be – and I am sure he will be – proud. That was a very, very satisfying drive for him."
Hamilton's mood through the Korean GP has prompted speculation that issues in his private life could be affecting him, but Whitmarsh says that in terms of the job the former World Champion is producing at the track there is no question that he is delivering 100 percent.
"I think professionally he is happy," he said. "I think he is very focused. When you are being told to smile all the time you tend to not to want to respond to that. I think you have got to deal with it. If I keep telling you, 'Why aren't you smiling a bit more, you are lucky to be here so get on with it?' You would be wondering whether to do so or not.
"The fact is, he has done a stunning job here, and that is first and foremost what I want and what the fans want. I think the fans, and hopefully you guys [media], will recognize that and he will as well."