Montreal, June 8 (IANS): After cruising to his fourth victory in seven races this season, Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton has said he needed the Canadian Grand Prix win.

The 30-year-old Briton lost out in the previous race in Monaco because of a team strategy error and made amends when he got the opportunity at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve here on Sunday.

"Did I need this? I think so," Hamilton was quoted as saying by BBC.

His win extended his lead to 17 points in the drivers' championship. Mercedes teammate Nico Rosberg had cut the gap to 10 points after the last race.

"I don't feel I needed to be relieved, I was quickest all of the previous race weekend as well. Obviously we had the problem which enabled Nico to win the race but otherwise," said Hamilton.

"Generally, I had good pace for the last two races so it's not a relief, it just feels good to continue with good strength and it's great that the team is continuing to be strong as well and continue to move forwards. That's probably the most impressive thing."