2Lewis Hamilton is in Bahrain ready for the F1 season openerCredit: Getty

2The Brit is beginning his 17th successive season on the F1 gridCredit: Getty

Following testing in Bahrain, Mercedes still appear to be playing catch-up to Red Bull and Ferrari.

But Hamilton remains a formidable presence on the grid as he seeks a record-breaking eighth title.

And on Wednesday, as the opening weekend of the season prepares to get underway in Asia, the Brit shared a couple of pictures taken from a photo shoot.

Alongside the snaps shared on Instagram, he added the message: “If you’re on this journey with me, thank you.

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A third responded: “Right behind you every step of the way – the good and the bad!!! But obviously only looking for the good – let the games begin!”

And a fourth replied: “Good luck this weekend Lewis Hamilton. Last year you proved why you are a seven-time world champion, you never give up no matter what. So take that eighth title and keep showing that anger and aggression is never the right way!”.

The F1 season kicks off with the Bahrain Grand Prix – a race Hamilton has won five times in the past.

But 1996 F1 world champion Damon Hill believes Hamilton could choose to quit the sport if he is no longer fighting for victories.