Hamilton thrilled by Silverstone deal
Date published : 07 Dec 2009 - 13:15:32
Lewis Hamilton has expressed his delight at the 17-year deal that has secured the future of the British Grand Prix, and says he is particularly pleased the race will be staying at Silverstone.The race's future had looked in jeopardy after the ambitious plan to move it to Donington Park was derailed by a lack of finance, but Silverstone stepped into the breach and agreed a deal with Bernie Ecclestone after protracted negotiations.The news is particularly welcome for British drivers Jenson Button and Lewis Hamilton, the two most recent world champions, and to the many British-based F1 teams.Hamilton said: Firstly, it's fantastic news that the British Grand Prix will stay on the calendar for 2010.Secondly, it's great that the race will be at Silverstone.The place has an atmosphere that money can't buy, and I have some fantastic memories of the track winning both races in GP2 in 2006, getting an incredibly emotional and satisfying pole in '07 and winning in the wet in my championship year.Most importantly, those achievements have all been underlined by the reaction and support of the Silverstone crowd, which has always been fantastic.British fans are the greatest Formula 1 supporters in the world and this must be the best Christmas present they could ever ask for.I can't wait to come home to the British Grand Prix next year: both Jenson and I will be flying the flag for Britain and doing our best to win the race.McLaren team boss Martin Whitmarsh was equally enthusiastic.The world championship wouldn't be complete without a race in Great Britain so today's announcement is good news for every Formula 1 team and for the millions of grand prix fans who understand the importance of a British Grand Prix to the fabric of world motorsport, he said.From the perspective of Vodafone McLaren Mercedes, we are now tremendously looking forward to the race.With Jenson and Lewis, our two British world champions, we will travel to Silverstone knowing that the focus will be on us to perform.And we want to provide the best show we can for the many thousands of supporters who will be cheering their national heroes throughout the weekend.
