“Formula one has given these guys something, I like to see them give something back. My message to Ron (Dennis) would be to let Lewis be what he is, the guy we see and like,” insisted Ecclestone earlier today.
The F1 boss had consistently asked for F1 drivers to get closer to the fans following their on-track success, mainly targeting former Ferrari champion Raikkonen whom he referred to as 'hardly talking to anybody'.
Hamilton is likely to go the same road after securing his maiden F1 title, as Ron Dennis is set to keep a close eye on his protege for the upcoming winter break. British drivers Jenson Button and David Coulthard have already urged Hamilton to give it his best and participate in this year's edition of the Race of Champions – scheduled for December, as Wembley Stadium – to have some fun for a change and show the fans a different side of him.
Ecclestone also urged people inside F1 not to be so critical of Hamilton for his so-called arrogance, comparing the 23-year old Brit with 7-time world champion Michael Schumacher.
“Hamilton is a young man doing his best and I get upset with people who say he is an arrogant bastard and all this nonsense. Lewis has achieved an awful lot and it would be bloody difficult for any of us to be the same as him. And yet there are so many people out there that want him to lose, so he has to make sure he delivers.”
“I think he comes over as a bit overconfident but don't forget they said the same things about Michael (Schumacher). I am sure he will grow into the position he has achieved; it just takes time. He has to be careful what he says and how he presents himself, otherwise there are no fears,” concluded Ecclestone.
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