Though it was Niki Lauda who tempted Lewis Hamilton away from McLaren to Mercedes, the move was approved by then team boss, Ross Brawn, even though the Briton had his doubts about his countryman's commitment.

Having overseen all seven of Michael Schumacher's titles with Benetton and Ferrari, Brawn, who was used to the German's 100% commitment to his craft, to the exclusion of all else, feared that Hamilton's many interests away from the sport would compromise him.

As the Briton racked up his sixth title on Sunday, Brawn now knows this not to be the case.

"I think the best compliment I can pay Lewis is to say that he has found a unique way of being a great champion," said Brawn.

"I have to admit that when I started working with him back in 2013 I was slightly nervous about his approach to being a professional racing driver," he admits. "For me, the benchmark was Michael Schumacher, a man totally dedicated to chasing success and at the same time very keen to guard his privacy and that of his family.

"Even then, Lewis was demonstrating a truly eclectic approach to his career and whilst totally professional he preferred a lifestyle that was definitely less monastic than Michael's.

"Lewis has always been comfortable moving in different circles, such as music and fashion," he continued, "and that's given him the energy to develop his talent still further, while always ensuring he is in the best physical shape possible, which is vital in the modern Formula 1 era.

"And at Mercedes, Lewis has found the right support in an environment that is stimulating technically but that at the same time allows him the freedom he absolutely needs.

"I therefore congratulate Toto Wolff and the whole team, as they've not only given him an amazing car year after year but they've allowed Lewis to develop and grow to become one of the greatest drivers in the history of Formula 1, certainly the strongest of the last 15 years."

LATEST NEWS

more news >

LATEST IMAGES

galleries >

Click to go to the main galleries section

READERS COMMENTS

1. Posted by DRAGON F1, 15/11/2019 5:30

"Rosberg won in 2016 because Mercedes gave Lewis Hamilton a car that broke down in too many races! Still Lewis almost won! That's a Fact! "

Rating: Neutral (0) Rate comment: Positive | NegativeReport this comment

2. Posted by dejan, 07/11/2019 18:35

"Schumacher was one that had at least a couple of titles more due to the status of a number one driver. Hamilton never enjoyed an undisputed number one status which is why Rosberg won in 2016. Of course he's had the benefit of being in the best car, but one could argue that he would have had the title in 2007 as well had he driven more like his 2012+ self."

Rating: Neutral (0) Rate comment: Positive | NegativeReport this comment

3. Posted by jcr, 07/11/2019 13:27

"To PGS, I accept some of your records, but I would just like to point out, I was referring to Championships. Much as i try, I cannot seem to recollect Wattie as champion, "

Rating: Neutral (0) Rate comment: Positive | NegativeReport this comment

4. Posted by BrightonCorgi, 06/11/2019 16:05

"Hamilton will be the best ever. Love him or hate, but there's no denying his skills. Hardly ever makes a mistake.."

Rating: Neutral (0) Rate comment: Positive | NegativeReport this comment

5. Posted by DRAGON F1, 06/11/2019 8:40

"Throughout F1, Lewis Hamilton is now recognized as one of the greatest racing drivers of all time, if not the greatest!

Most of the time, it's ok to make ignorant comments due to personal 'views', however, in life this is sometimes very dangerous,... and Extremely Embarrassing!! Lol"

Rating: Positive (3) Rate comment: Positive | NegativeReport this comment

6. Posted by PGS, 06/11/2019 2:28

"JCR, Schumacher was beaten by Rosberg in 2010, 2011 and 2012. Let's not count 1999 as he broke his leg.
Prost was beaten by John Watson in 1980, by Lauda in 1984 and by Senna in 1988.
Fangio was beaten by Farina in 1950.
"

Rating: Positive (4) Rate comment: Positive | NegativeReport this comment

7. Posted by jcr, 05/11/2019 13:14

"Shue, Prost, Fangio,ect. Hamilton, Still the only one to be beayen by his team mate in same car-"

Rating: Negative (-6) Rate comment: Positive | NegativeReport this comment

Brawn doubted Hamilton's commitment

LATEST NEWS

RELATED ARTICLES

LATEST IMAGES

POST A COMMENT

Post your comment

READERS COMMENTS

Share this page