Hamilton talked up the possibility of a Mercedes drive at the end of last
year, touting the 26 year-old as a future world champion.
“I’m extremely proud of Paul, he’s so level-headed,” he said. “Yes, he’s
quiet, but it’s what you do on the track that’s most important.
“Paul has been a champion at every level he’s raced at: karting, Formula Three
and DTM. Paul’s junior category CV is more substantial than Sebastian’s
[Vettel] in some ways, and I expect him to do the same in F1. I believe that
in him we are looking at a future world champion.”
Red
Bull team principal Christian Horner, meanwhile, says double world
champion Sebastian Vettel has assured him he has not signed a pre-contract
with Ferrari.
The German has been linked with a move to Maranello at the end of the 2014
season, but Horner is adamant the 24 year-old does not have an option in
place.
“I can’t see that because all contracts have to be declared with the Contract
Recognition Board for a start,” Horner said.
“I’ve also spoken to Sebastian about it, and he has made it quite clear he
hasn’t had any dialogue and hasn’t signed anything with Ferrari, but I guess
the rumour mill will always continue.
“He is only 24, and I don’t think Ferrari is a must for him. He is very happy
where he is, he’s achieved great results with us, and is focused on trying
to achieve a lot more.”