Fittipaldi, once F1's youngest world champion, said he had been impressed by the 22-year-old Briton but that people should be realistic.

"This season will be a learning process - we shouldn't expect to see him winning races, " said the Brazilian. "After Melbourne I imagine he'd be happy with a few more podium places."

When Fittipaldi won the world crown in 1972 at the age of 25, he was then the sport's youngest champion. That honour now belongs to Hamilton's McLaren team-mate Fernando Alonso, who won his first title at the age of 24.

Hamilton kept pace with Alonso for two-thirds of the Australian GP, and Fittipaldi said he was in the best place for his development and education.

"It's a fantastic opportunity, Alonso is a brilliant driver and Lewis will be able to learn from him, " he said. "It will also give him a great benchmark - if he can keep up with Alonso, he can keep up with anyone."