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SUZUKA, JAPAN – Lewis Hamilton of Great Britain and Mercedes GP prepares to drive on the grid before the F1 Grand Prix of Japan at Suzuka Circuit in Suzuka, Japan. (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images)
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SUZUKA, JAPAN – Lewis Hamilton of Great Britain and Mercedes GP prepares to drive on the grid before the F1 Grand Prix of Japan at Suzuka Circuit in Suzuka, Japan. (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images)
Lewis Hamilton will head into the 2021 F1 season without one of his closest aides. Marc Hynes, who is a very close friend of the 7-time world champion and handled the Mercedes man’s business and logistic interests while being the CEO of ‘Project 44,’ has now vacated his position.
Hynes’ future working alongside Hamilton was already in question over the winter break. Now, it has been made official. However, the two parties have split on friendly terms.
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According to DailyMail, a source close to Lewis said, “Marc has left Project 44 to pursue other opportunities within motorsports and Lewis wishes him well knowing that he will be as valuable to his next challenge, as he was to P44.”
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SHANGHAI, CHINA. Race winner Lewis Hamilton of Great Britain and Mercedes GP celebrates in parc ferme. F1 Grand Prix of China. Shanghai International Circuit in Shanghai, China. (Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images)
Business will not come in the way of friendship between Lewis Hamilton and Hynes
The source further added, “Lewis is very grateful for all his support over the last five years, both personally and in helping him build his company.
‘During that time Lewis won four world championships and broke numerous records, and Marc was part of and shared in that success.
‘Marc and Lewis have known each other since they were young, as friends first and business partners second, so, while they are parting ways in a business sense, they remain close friends.”
Hynes has been in charge of ‘Project 44′ for 7 years now. Although, Marc was not involved in Lewis’ contract negotiations.
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ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES. Lewis Hamilton of Mercedes GP looks on. F1 Grand Prix of Abu Dhabi. Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. (Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images)
Hynes’ departure will be an emotional blow for Hamilton. It might hamper his off-track activities, which could lead Lewis’ mind away from the racing action.
However, all the off-field distractions might likely be resolved before the start of the season. Expect the Briton to be raring to hit the track with his full focus dedicated on winning an 8th world title.
A championship win this year may not be easy, though. Red Bull appear to have strengthened in most departments while Mercedes have voiced concerns. The Silver Arrows are unsure of how the car will behave with the new aerodynamic changes.
Will this be the year where Mercedes’ and Lewis’ domination ends? Or will it just be business as usual for the serial winners? We shall soon find out.
Also Read: ‘Fed Up’ Lewis Hamilton Likely to Retire After 8th Title: F1 Pundit
