Simon Fuller to manage Hamilton

Following more than a year of speculation regarding Hamilton's plans, after he ended his management arrangement with father Anthony on the eve of the 2010 campaign, the McLaren driver will now join the same camp that looks after David Beckham and Andy Murray.

Speaking about his decision, Hamilton said: "It was important I took my time to make this decision as it had to be right for my career and my long-term future.

"I spoke to many interested companies in recent months but I felt Simon Fuller along with his team at XIX Entertainment not only wanted to help me become an even better racing driver, but they also shared my ambitions for the longer term. I look forward to working with them closely."

Speaking about his tie-up with Hamilton, Fuller said: "I've met Lewis and his father several times in the past and kept an eye on his career closely over the years. Like any British fan I watched with pride and admiration at his achievements, incredibly winning the world championship at such a young age.

"He's not only one of the leading sportsmen of his generation, he will I believe become one of the best of all time. It's an honour to be partnering with Lewis in what will be a very exciting stage of his career."

Anthony Hamilton added: "This is great news for Lewis and for Simon. Lewis has wisely taken his time to find a good person to look after him.

"I met with Simon a couple of years back and he was then at the top of my list as my potential replacement. I'm happy to see that two years on Lewis has also come to his own opinion about Simon and made his own decision."