Martin Whitmarsh confident Lewis Hamilton will not leave McLaren for 2012 season – Formula 1 news
Martin Whitmarsh, the team principal of McLaren has said that he is confident Lewis Hamilton will stay at the team for the 2012 Formula 1 season despite the rumours that the 2008 world champion might leave the team for Red Bull Racing as a replacement for
Mark Webber.
McLaren are currently being attacked from all sides as even Jenson Button has been linked to Ferrari as a replacement for Felipe Massa. These are just rumours but both of the drivers have stated their concerns and claimed that they would go for a team which
would provide them with a “better and consistent” car.
“Lewis loves this team and he knows the car is capable of winning races,” Whitmarsh said. “He's sat with me in the last 10 days and explained his passion, enthusiasm and desire to remain part of this team.”
Hamilton joined Formula 1 with McLaren and he seemed like one of those drivers who drive for just one team throughout their careers.
The former world champion on the other hand believes that he has what it takes to make it “big” in the sport and he is willing to do anything in order to achieve his goals which included a team switch if McLaren fail to provide him with a competitive car.
Despite this matter, Whitmarsh also defended Hamilton’s aggressive driving style which has been criticised by almost everyone attached with the sport.
“I've known him since he was 11. I don't think he would look me in the eye and say that if he didn't mean it. A racing driver has to attack. If you are going to overtake another Formula One car, you are going to take a risk. I know Niki and like him, and
I accept that there are people around who want to say things to create controversy,” said the team boss.
He added that Lewis mostly regrets his accidents and so does the team but the reason why everyone respects him is his unique risky driving style.
Tags: