© Steve Etherington for Mercedes-Benz Grand Prix Ltd.
The boss of Mercedes’ new principal partner INEOS, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, says “there aren’t many better drivers than Lewis that have ever been”.
After announcing the new principal partnership deal between Mercedes and INEOS, rumoured to be worth £20m per year, the chemicals company boss Sir Jim Ratcliffe immediately cleared up his company’s involvement in the team.
“We have only just got the name on the car,” said Ratcliffe.
“I think that is enough for now.”
He also gave his comments on Lewis Hamilton and his future with the team. Hamilton’s contract with Mercedes runs out at the end of 2020, but Ratcliffe says he’s be surprised if the Briton decided to leave the team that helped him win five of his six world titles.
“I think Lewis is one of the finest sportsmen ever at his trade. There aren’t many better drivers than Lewis that have ever been.
“But at the end of the day it is Toto’s job to pick his drivers. Things change.
“If I were Lewis I would be quite focused on number seven, which obviously would then equal [Michael] Schumacher, and it’s with the world’s most successful team.
“It’s obviously Lewis’ decision, not mine, but I would be surprised if he left,” concluded the Briton.
Source: BBC Sport
