The drivers at Mercedes have been quick to thank Ross Brawn for all of his hard work over the past few seasons after the team principal confirmed today that he would be stepping down at the end of the year.
Brawn joined the Brackley-based outfit when it was Honda in 2008, which evolved into Brawn GP in 2009 and finally Mercedes in 2010. Since then, he has masterminded the team’s growth, culminating in a second place finish in this year’s constructors’ championship.
Having worked with Brawn since joining Mercedes in 2010, Nico Rosberg took to Twitter to thank him for his work as well as lending his support to Toto Wolff and Paddy Lowe who will be jointly running the team next season.
“Was a great experience to work with Ross. He is a great leader and we shared special times like my first win and Monaco win,” Rosberg tweeted. “Our ambition is to be leading next year. Now on we go flat out with Paddy and Toto! Starting with seat fit and 2014 simulator tomorrow.”
Lewis Hamilton, who joined Mercedes at the beginning of 2013, shared similar sentiments with his followers.
“Massive thanks to Ross Brawn. He’s been a great leader and teacher for me. Ross has built the foundations for us to succeed in 2014!
“Toto and Paddy are fantastic guys and strong leaders for the team. I’ve started my training already and can’t wait for 2014!”
Niki Lauda was also highly complimentary about Brawn, and even said that negotiations did take to place to try and keep him on at the team. However, it appears that the 59-year-old decided that the time was right to leave Brackley, even if his next move is still something of a mystery.
Massive thanks to Ross Brawn. He’s been a great leader and teacher for me. Ross has built the foundations for us to succeed in 2014! #Legend
— Lewis Hamilton (@LewisHamilton) November 28, 2013
was a great experience to work with Ross. he is a great leader & we shared special times like my first win and monaco win
— Nico Rosberg (@nico_rosberg) November 28, 2013