Refreshed Hamilton fires warning to rivals: 'I'm going to be a machine in 2020'

Lewis Hamilton has sent a warning to those rivals looking to knock him off his perch this year, posting on social media that he’s going to be “on another level” as he readies himself for a tilt at a fourth-straight world title in 2020.

If he does win again, of course, he’ll equal Michael Schumacher’s record of seven world championship crowns – and the reigning champion has suggested his preparation so far has been ideal.

READ MORE: Consistency key to fighting Hamilton for 2020 title – Bottas

The recently turned 35-year-old - now one of the oldest drivers on the F1 grid - wrote on Instagram: “I am at peace when I’m here [at home], can focus and build my mind and body so that I can come back year on year. I’m going to be a machine this year, on another level than ever before!”

For Hamilton to raise his level, he'll neeed to go some. Last season the British driver scored 11 wins and 413 points - his highest tally ever. This season he can not only match Schumacher's championship tally, he could surpass the great German's long-standing race wins record, entering 2020 just seven behind.

Score points in Australia, meanwhile, and Hamilton will set a new marker for consecutive races in the points, breaking his own 33-race record.

A message of intent from the world champion then, who seems to be thoroughly enjoying his off-season...