Pastor Maldonado will remain with the Lotus F1 Team for a third season after it was announced on Sunday that the Venezuelan driver has re-signed for 2016 with the Enstone team.
Despite rumours about Renault taking control of the team in 2016, Maldonado was announced as the first driver for the team next season, with the PDVSA-backed Venezuelan happy that his future in the sport has been confirmed.
“It’s great that the team can confirm my position as race driver for 2016,” said Maldonado. “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.”
Gerard Lopez, the Chairman and Team Principal of the Lotus F1 Team, welcomed the news of Maldonado’s contract extension, and said the Venezuelan was a ‘terrific’ person to work with.
“It’s a positive for the future of Lotus F1 Team that we are able to confirm publically that Pastor remains with us for next season,” said Lopez.
“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.”
