Lewis Hamilton pleaded with his McLaren bosses to keep Britain’s Grand Prix dream team together and re-sign team-mate Jenson Button.
And ahead of today’s European Grand Prix, he gave the biggest hint yet that he himself will re-sign for the team that has been his home for 13 years – but he issued a clear warning that the decisive factor in contract talks was a winning car.
Button rubbished links with rivals Ferrari as “twaddle” but his contract at Woking runs out at the end of this season.
Hamilton spoke after he qualified third and Button sixth in Valencia as Sebastian Vettel thundered to his seventh pole in eight races – dashing hopes new engine mapping rules would wreck Red Bull’s F1 domination.
The worst news for McLaren, though, was that Mark Webber is back on form and starting second, and will prove an extra hurdle.
Despite Button’s superb victory in Montreal putting Hamilton’s performances into sharper relief, the 26-year-old wants his contract extended to 2013.
“If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it,” said Hamilton. “I’d love to race alongside him for another three years. Jenson has been fantastic. He has been very quick and competitive. His demeanour helps create a comfortable atmosphere in the team. We have more harmony in our team than in any other.”
And last night boss Martin Whitmarsh gave the first indication that is exactly what is about to happen.
He said: “Jenson has been a great member of this team, we are really fortunate with Lewis and Jenson to have two great racing drivers.
“I very much want them to be a part of this team for a long time to come.”
Uncharacteristically reserved after qualifying, Hamilton brushed off his previous claims of “full attack” and said his goal was the lowest step on the podium.
“I’ve had a couple of very tough races, so third would be absolutely fantastic and anything else would be amazing,” he added.
“When I say I am on maximum attack I mean that in the positive light, not that I am being careless.
“When I am behind someone, if I have been thinking once or twice, I will definitely think a third time before making a manoeuvre.
‘‘That’s a part of growing. It’s important I finish every race.
“As concerns the future, the most important factor is a better car. I really want to win more championships.”
Source: The Mirror
