F1 News - Hamilton Secures McLaren Seat For 2007
27/11/2006
Lewis Hamilton, this year's GP2 Series Champion, will partner F1 World Champion Fernando Alonso at McLaren next season. "It's a dream come true," said the 21-year-old Briton, who will continue his association with Bridgestone in 2007.
"To be racing in F1 with McLaren has been the ultimate goal for me since I was very young, and this opportunity is a fantastic way to end what has been a fantastic year for me," said a jubilant Hamilton
"The team has told me just to relax, do the best I can and enjoy the opportunity. I will work hard to get good results."
Hamilton has already conducted several tests for McLaren and has impressed the engineers with his speed and composure from the outset. He will be back in a Bridgestone-shod MP4-21 at Barcelona next week.
"It is going to be the biggest challenge of Lewis's career so far," said McLaren boss Ron Dennis, "but it's one that we are sure he will be able to meet. He will have to familiarise himself with the pressures of a grand prix weekend, but the confidence we have in Lewis's abilities and talent is clear from our decision to give him a chance."
Hamilton has had a long association with McLaren, having had his career supported by the team and Mercedes for the past nine years.
"He deserves this opportunity," said Mercedes Motorsport boss Norbert Haug.