Lotus receives support from David Hunt
Team Lotus has received a message of support from David Hunt, the man who used to own the name - just a few days after he had hit out at team principal Tony Fernandes
Ahead of the first race for the Team Lotus moniker since the 1994 Australian Grand Prix, Hunt has now said he is fully behind the outfit.
"This is an emotional weekend for me," said Hunt, who has been in court this week for the Team Lotus v Group Lotus legal battle, in a statement released on Sunday. "The journey has been long and hard and, as many know, it's not yet quite over, which is why I've been unable to travel to Melbourne to witness the event to which I've been dedicated since 1995 when I promised the loyal Team Lotus staff and fans that we would bring it back to Formula 1.
"I therefore wish to thank the many Team Lotus fans around the world who have kept faith and encouraged me over the years, and to wish the new Team Lotus staff both in Melbourne and back in the UK, who are now charged with creating a new chapter of success in the marque's history, the very best of success for this weekend."
Hunt said that one of the key factors that had come out of the court case has been how important Colin Chapman's legacy remains.
"Sitting in a London courtroom all week listening to unpleasant legal wranglings has, however, reminded all present of the towering impact on both the racing and road car industries made by Colin Chapman. His presence dominates the room.
"Whatever the legal issues over his legacy 30 years after his death, racing was his love, Team Lotus the 'jewel in the crown' of his business empire, and Formula 1 the arena in which all of his extraordinary qualities and talents were most passionately unleashed and expressed.
"Living up to 'Chunky's' unique legacy is a big task, but I know the boys and girls of this new Team Lotus relish the challenge and I wish them well in keeping the Chapman racing spirit alive and adding to the marque's glittering history."
The Lotus case continues next week, with several witnesses having already taken to the stand - including former FIA president Max Mosley, Group Lotus CEO Dany Bahar and former Lotus technical director Peter Wright.
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