McLaren: We still want Lewis Hamilton to win F1 title

Lewis Hamilton (GETTY IMAGES)

McLaren insist Lewis Hamilton's exit will not affect their attempt to win both world titles. The team principal, Martin Whitmarsh, says they will continue their policy of equality of opportunity. "We have six grands prix that we can win," said Whitmarsh. "It's acknowledged we have the quickest car, so we're going to try to win two world championships with Lewis very much part of the team."

Hamilton's move to Mercedes for 2013 was announced on Friday, but he says he is still determined to try to win his second world title this year.

After retiring from the lead in the last race in Singapore, Hamilton is 52 points behind the leader, Ferrari's Fernando Alonso, with 150 points available.

Whitmarsh added: "It is well known that McLaren give both drivers an equal opportunity. We'll be working together.