Hamilton: It was an exciting race

Lewis Hamilton was in exuberant mood after winning his first race of the season at Istanbul, Turkey on Sunday.

A happy Hamilton said: "It was quite an exciting race actually. "We knew we had great race pace, but they (Red Bull) had such pace through Turn Eight that we couldn't slipstream, other than that I was on his tail.

"Then I had a problem with the right rear at my pit stop and I lost a place to Vettel.

"I don't know what happened to these guys (Red Bull), but we got through and then I had a great battle with Jenson.

"I'd like to dedicate this win to my dad (Anthony) as it's his 50th birthday. It's a great way for him to celebrate."

Button added: "It was good fun, but then after Lewis got past I was into fuel save mode as well.

"The race was a lot quicker than we thought it would be, but three weeks ago who would have though we would battle with the Red Bulls like we have."

As for Webber, he bit his tongue in describing what happened with Vettel as he said: "Seb had top-speed advantage.

"He then went down the inside, we were side by side, it looked like he turned quick right and we made contact.

"It's a shame for the team and not an ideal day. It can happen sometimes and when you are at the front it's difficult.

"There was a long way to go into the race, so it wasn't a guaranteed victory, but it was an interesting few metres on the track between us."