LEWIS Hamilton was rendered almost speechless twice within a matter of hours – but for startlingly different reasons on another day of see-sawing emotions.

Hamilton was initially lost for words after unveiling a special commemorative plaque to honour his achievement in becoming world champion last year.

The ceremony, in front of F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone’s mobile headquarters and between the practice sessions for the Spanish Grand Prix, was especially significant as it was at this track in February of last year that Hamilton was racially abused.

An international incident nearly erupted as a number of so-called fans at a test session blackened their faces and wore curly wigs and T-shirts adorned with the words ’Hamilton’s family’.

Yesterday’s latest peace offering was a clear attempt to further smooth the waters between the 24-year-old and the Spanish people as there has previously never been such a show for any other former champion in F1’s inner sanctum of the paddock.

Kind words from Ecclestone, McLaren team principal Martin Whitmarsh and circuit boss Ramon Praderas were followed by Hamilton becoming choked after pulling back the curtain covering the plaque.

Inscribed with the words ’Thanks for your passion and support’, and with his trademark ’Lewis’ signature below, a stunned Hamilton simply remarked: ‘‘Wow!’’ Composing himself, Hamilton added: ‘‘It’s kind of emotional to be standing here, to be in Barcelona, to be here at Catalunya, one of my favourite circuits.

‘‘I will continue to do the best job I can and I hope to continue making my country and my team proud.’’ That could be difficult this weekend because three hours later, and after stepping out of his car following second practice, Hamilton was again left dumbfounded.

Following his fine fourthplace finish in Bahrain 12 days ago, he predicted the car would not suit the circuit.

But, given his terse replies to a Q&A session that lasted only three and a half minutes, it was clear he was not expecting it to be this bad.

Hamilton’s frustration was still clear after ending the day nearly 1.3 seconds slower than the fastest man of the day, Williams’ Nico Rosberg.

Asked if he sensed any progress from the test in March, when he was several seconds slower, he said: ‘‘There has been a little bit.

‘‘It is not as bad as it was at that time but it is still a long way away."