Hamilton delighted by Silverstone deal

"Firstly, it's fantastic news that the British Grand Prix will stay on the calendar for 2010," said Hamilton after Silverstone announced a 17-year deal to host the race.

"Secondly, it's great that the race will be at Silverstone.

"The place has an atmosphere that money can't buy, and I have some fantastic memories of the track - winning both races in GP2 in 2006, getting an incredibly emotional and satisfying pole in '07 and winning in the wet in my championship year.

"Most importantly, those achievements have all been underlined by the reaction and support of the Silverstone crowd, which has always been fantastic. British fans are the greatest Formula 1 supporters in the world - and this must be the best Christmas present they could ever ask for.

"I can't wait to come home to the Santander British Grand Prix next year: both Jenson and I will be flying the flag for Britain and doing our best to win the race," added the Briton.

McLaren team boss Martin Whitmarsh also welcomed the news.

"The FIA Formula 1 World Championship wouldn't be complete without a race in Great Britain - so today's announcement is good news for every Formula 1 team and for the millions of grand prix fans who understand the importance of a British Grand Prix to the fabric of world motorsport," he said.

"From the perspective of Vodafone McLaren Mercedes, we are now tremendously looking forward to the race.

"With Jenson and Lewis, our two British world champions, we will travel to Silverstone knowing that the focus will be on us to perform. And we want to provide the best show we can for the many thousands of supporters who will be cheering their national heroes throughout the weekend."