Oct.15 (GMM) The current regulations are a reason for Lewis Hamilton's current struggles, according to David Coulthard.

The veteran Scot analysed the reasons for the 2008 world champion's difficult season, with Hamilton's teammate Jenson Button the leading McLaren at present, in his latest column for the Daily Telegraph.

"There is no doubt that these tyre regulations are better suited to drivers who pace themselves; who feel their way through a race rather than go all-out," said Coulthard, a former McLaren and Red Bull driver.

He is referring to the new era of no refuelling and heavily degrading Pirelli tyres, insisting Hamilton needs to quickly adapt.

"All world-class drivers have been able to adapt to new regulations. Think of Michael Schumacher, who has run the full gamut from 3.5 litre, active ride-height cars to 2.4 litre V8s with slicks," said Coulthard.

"Until he (Hamilton) can adapt fully to these regulations and play a cuter game he is unlikely to be consistently competitive."

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