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Lewis Hamilton Joins the GPDA

Formula 1 reigning champion Lewis Hamilton revealed he has joined the Grand Prix Drivers Association (GPDA) ahead of the 2009 season. While interviewed by British magazine Autosport on the Superlicense fees for the new season and the dispute over it between the FIA and the GPDA, Hamilton confirmed that he's now a full-right member of the association.

“I've actually already joined the GPDA. I have been talking with Pedro for the last month, so I am now a member. I had been thinking about it for some time, but I am not the type of person to be pushed into something I don't want to do. I just felt comfortable and sat down, had a good chat with Pedro and I said yes because it is something where perhaps I can contribute to this,” said Hamilton.

Hamilton has been urged by former F1 champ Sir Jackie Stewart to join the drivers' association last year, as the McLaren driver has become an important voice within the F1 competitors. Hamilton will therefore join former teammate Fernando Alonso as the only Formula 1 champions to be part of the GPDA. Kimi Raikkonen – as well as teammate Felipe Massa – are yet to join (if ever) the drivers' association.

The GPDA made the headlines several times this winter due to the outspoken conflict with the FIA on the Superlicense fees for 2009. The drivers issued a statement urging the international body to lower the fees, as it were previously raised (in 2008) by more than 600%. However, in the wake of the economic crisis, the drivers have asked for a reduction of those rates for 2009.

In the end, the drivers agreed to sign the new agreements for the upcoming season, but the FIA confirmed the fees for 2010 will be discussed with the GPDA later this year.
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