Hamilton ready for the challenge - Brawn

Mercedes team principal Ross Brawn has no doubt when Lewis Hamilton joins his team next season he will be fully committed.

McLaren counterpart Martin Whitmarsh last week suggested Hamilton had started to regret his switch to Mercedes after signing a £45million, three-year contract. Hamilton conceded on Thursday that the remarks had surprised him, naturally insisting he had absolutely no regrets and he was "very, very happy with his decision".

"Lewis is at the perfect stage of his career where, after being at McLaren a long time, this is the next challenge for him," said Brawn. "He is hugely motivated to face this challenge. We've a driver who is massively motivated to help us succeed more in the future, so that's another great asset."

He added: "There will be some ups and downs, some difficult days and some great days - he knows that and we know that.

"So Lewis is a very important ingredient in helping us get to where we want to be.

"I don't want to underestimate Nico (Rosberg) either, he is a very important driver in the process.

"But obviously adding a fresh ingredient like Lewis brings another perspective as well."

It could be argued with Hamilton on board, he will strengthen Brawn's hand when it comes to asking for funds to develop the car.

Brawn, however, believes the Mercedes board have already proven they are not afraid to splash the cash by signing Hamilton in the first place.

"I don't know that Lewis gives me clout, but it shows a commitment, that our company are committed to succeeding," said Brawn. "To both persuade, and find the funds necessary, to bring in a driver like Lewis shows fantastic commitment."