Lewis Hamilton ends romance with Pussycat Dolls star
Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton has confirmed his break-up with Pussycat Dolls singer Nicole Scherzinger after frenzied speculation in the tabloid press.
A downbeat Hamilton said the end of the high-profile, four-year relationship had been "very tough" to deal with after a difficult season in which the 2008 champion sits just fifth in the drivers' standings.
"I've been dealing with it on my own with great support from my family," Hamilton said, according to the BBC.
"It's very tough (but) I was still able to focus at the last race and I still have that attitude."
Hamilton's joyless demeanor was noticeable at this month's Korean Grand Prix, where he placed second, and he delayed his arrival in India until Wednesday to "maximize" his time among friends and family.
"When those kind of things in your life are good they have a great impact on your life -- and that relationship did," he said.
"I wouldn't say that I was in great spirits. It's been a tough couple of weeks and I don't think the last race did anything for me.
"It was good to get back on the podium but it's only one race -- it's been a whole year of ups and downs. Hopefully with more races I'll begin to feel a boost."