Lewis Not Worried About Dennis' Stepping Down

Ron Dennis leaving the sport – as a team principal – is a news that left most F1 fans mouth-opened. And that includes McLaren ace and defending world champion Lewis Hamilton. The British driver admitted he only heard about his team principal's decision a few minutes before it was announced but, strangely enough, did not think this would have an important effect on the team in the near future.

“I only heard Ron was standing down a couple of minutes before he announced his decision. The team have never been just Ron, as he says himself. The foundations are here for the team to have a sustained period of dominance,” said Hamilton, according to British newspaper Daily Mail.

Dennis announced his decision to leave his position as team principal of the Woking-based team shortly after the unveiling of the new McLaren MP4-24. He will be replaced at McLaren by fellow countryman Martin Whitmarsh, the very man who insisted that Lewis Hamilton should step into Formula 1 in 2007. That's probably the reason why Hamilton feels as secure as ever with the new leadership of the team.

“I stress nothing to get too excited about but it is absolute time for Martin to take over as team principal. As from March 1 he will adopt that responsibility. I will still go to races, not all of them, because I am passionate,” said Dennis on Friday.

“I intend to work harder and will take on greater responsibility in the group. I will be full executive chairman. It is time and I have to say it is absolutely 100 percent my decision. It is what I want to do, but I do intend to work much harder,” added the 61-year old Englishman, who therefore assured the McLaren fans that he won't be leaving the sport for good, but take new responsibilities within the team.