Lewis Hamilton unfazed by Australian GP retirement

Lewis Hamilton has shrugged off his retirement in the opening race of the new season, insisting his Mercedes team are in a "really strong position".

One of the favourites for this year's title, the 2008 world champion was forced out of the Australian Grand Prix after just three laps as team-mate Nico Rosberg took victory in Melbourne.

"There are massive positives," said Hamilton, whose race was cut short by engine trouble. "We won the race by a long way, so as a team it's a really strong position to be in."

The 29-year-old Briton, who started the race on pole, added: "The car looks great and we have a lot of data for the guys to work on.

"I did everything I could. I've just got to look to the next race."

The next grand prix takes place in Malaysia on 30 March.

Reliability has been a big issue for a number of teams as they have adapted to a new set of rules.

But Rosberg, who has claiming only the fourth win of his career, said his car had run flawlessly throughout.

His winning margin was 25 seconds, built up in 40 laps after an early safety car period and while not extending the car.

Lewis Hamilton retired on lap three with an engine problem after starting on pole

"The car was just really quick today," said the 28-year-old German, whose winning margin was 25 seconds.

"The team did such a good job. Reliability was great. I'm just so happy for everybody. They work so damn hard."

Red Bull's Daniel Ricciardo was second but was later disqualified for a fuel-flow rate infringement.

The decision promoted Dane Kevin Magnussen, making his F1 debut, to second in his McLaren.

Team-mate Jenson Button was third, with Ferrari's Fernando Alonso fourth and Williams driver Valtteri Bottas fifth.

Four-time champion Sebastian Vettel retired on lap six as his Red Bull continued to suffer from reliability issues.

Full Australian Grand Prix race results

Details for BBC coverage of the 2014 F1 season