Lewis Hamilton is already relishing the start of next season, despite ending his reign as world champion on a low note.

McLaren star Hamilton was red-hot favourite to become the winner of Formula One's first day-night race after dominating practice and qualifying for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. However, he was forced to retire with a right-rear brake issue - and although naturally disappointed at first, he knows how far he has come following a miserable first few months of the year.

"It's been an incredible year, and now I can't wait for next season to start so I can fight for the world championship again."

Reflecting on Sunday's race he said: "I had a good start but I realised early on something wasn't right with the brakes," he said.

"After three or four laps, it became clear there was a problem with my right-rear brake pad - so I couldn't open up a gap to Sebastian and Mark.

"When the problem got worse, the team radioed me and told me to stop at the end of the lap.

"Of course, it's a shame we couldn't show the performance we'd had throughout the weekend. But sometimes, that's racing.

"However, I think we can be really proud of our efforts. Who'd have thought we'd finish third in the constructors' championship at the start of this season?"