Lotus confirms Maldonado for 2016
Lotus F1 Team has confirmed that Pastor Maldonado will stay with the team into 2016. He will continue with the Enstone-based team as a race driver for his third consecutive season.
Gerard Lopez, Chairman and Team Principal, Lotus F1 Team:
“It’s a positive for the future of Lotus F1 Team that we are able to confirm publicly that Pastor remains with us for next season", said Gerard Lopez, the team's Chairman and Team Principal.
"Everyone at Enstone will testify that Pastor is a terrific person to work with and we all know the performances he is capable of on track. Pastor joined us with a multi-year deal so this confirmation is a reiteration of our belief in him. We hope to be able to make further positive announcements regarding the team in the near future.”
Pastor Maldonado meanwhile proved happy to be certain of his seat next year.
“It’s great that the team can confirm my position as race driver for 2016", the Venezuelan said.
"Obviously, there has been a lot of speculation about the future and whilst I have remained focused on my job on track it is also positive to know that my future is confirmed. This season has presented us with some challenges but the quality of the squad at Enstone is clear to see. I really feel part of the family at Enstone and I’m looking forward to building on the work done this year to deliver better results in 2016.”
While continuity is great, Maldonado's performance have not been what they could have been in recent years. Lotus however likely had no other option but to continue with Maldonado, given the team's current financial issues and Maldonado's financial backing by PDVSA.
At the same time, it is understood that Romain Grosjean will leave Enstone and join the new Haas F1 Team.
