Helping hand for Hamilton as Hakkinen's former manager joins team
Lewis Hamilton is to be further guided behind the scenes this year as the team around him has been strengthened.
XIX Entertainment, who manage Hamilton's career, have taken on the services of the highly-experienced Didier Coton.
Coton has managed the careers of many drivers over the years, most notably double Formula One world champion Mika Hakkinen, a good friend of 27-year-old Hamilton.
The move by XIX signals owner Simon Fuller's intention to grow his interests in motorsport and enhance the team assisting Hamilton.
New addition: Hamilton (left) has added Didier Coton to his team
It has always been Fuller's intention since working with Hamilton to bring on board someone with more F1 experience.
Hamilton, the 2008 F1 champion, said: 'Simon is committed to creating a team that will help me achieve my ambitions for 2012 and beyond.
'Didier's appointment builds on the existing strengths of XIX and I am delighted to have him as part of the team.
'I'm positive about the season ahead and can't wait to start.'
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Role model: Button (right) has a strong team around him
For Hamilton, the appointment of Coton is a step in the right direction.
Coton, who runs his own Aces Management company, said: 'Being appointed by Simon to join the team is a great honour.
'I am excited to work alongside two such prestigious personalities and talents.
'XIX's visionary approach is unique and one I believe in. I look forward to helping Lewis achieve success and developing long term projects with Simon and his team.'
As far as Fuller is concerned, Coton represents the right person for him to work with following a lengthy search.
Fuller has no doubts Coton will help him further his motorsport aims as he said: 'We have ambitious plans and this shows our commitment to remain in the sport for the long term.
'Didier will bring knowledge and expertise to our team and I look forward to working with him.'