Hamilton happy with track return

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Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton got his first taste of McLaren's 2009 car when he completed 81 laps in testing in Portugal.

The 23-year-old was third fastest overall after a minor engine problem.

It was his first drive since winning the Formula One title in dramatic fashion at the Brazilian Grand Prix.

"It was good to be back working with the team. It felt like I'd hardly been away because it was easy to slip back into the routine," said Hamilton.

"This first test was all about just getting used to the new car and the new regulations and about giving my feedback to the engineers - it wasn't about setting a fast time.

"I'm pleased to report that the car feels good, we've made lots of progress over the winter and I'm looking forward to developing the car ahead of the Australian Grand Prix.

"It's going to be an extremely busy winter. I've only been in the car for one day and our usual job list for the weeks ahead is already enormous.

"With the limitations on testing during the season, and the few sessions we have over the next two months, this is going to be an intense time and absolutely critical for every team."

The day's fastest time was set by Toro Rosso's Sebastien Buemi, who finished almost two seconds clear of second-placed Nico Rosberg in the Williams who was half a second clear of Hamilton.

Hamilton's team-mate Heikki Kovalainen will take over behind the wheel for Thursday's final session at the Algarve Motor Park.