Niki Lauda says 'pragmatic' Hamilton left McLaren to map out 'quickest route to success'

Formula One legend Niki Lauda has claimed that Mercedes ace Lewis Hamilton has left his former club McLaren as he wanted the quickest route to success.

Until now it was thought the major factor was Hamilton's fury at boss Ron Dennis' handling of contract talks and his own desire for a fresh challenge, the Mirror reports.

However, Lauda, who handled secret talks for Mercedes, said that Hamilton was lured by the tantalising possibility of becoming the most famous racer the sport has seen, adding that he was impressed by Hamilton's pragmatic and direct approach despite criticism about the 2008 champion's youth and inability to make decisions.

Stating that he advised the Brit to leave McLaren, Lauda said that he urged Hamilton to take a risk and go for an underperforming Mercedes, adding that he told Hamilton that if he managed to be successful for Mercedes, he would be a bigger legend than either himself or Michael Schumacher.

With his remarkable drive and energy still fierce, Lauda, the non-executive chairman of Mercedes, is determined that their success will not end with Monaco glory, adding that although winning Monaco is as famous as winning the world championship, the final target has to get more podiums.

However, Lauda said that the Brackley-based team needed to more reliable and consistent to win more championships, although he agreed with Hamilton in admitting that despite their recent success, it is unlikely that Mercedes will win the title this year.