After a long period of silence from Harry Westwood, due to what we can only presume is part of his team's focus on research and development, but today he called a press conference, as well as inviting team principals Dylan Lopez and Ryan Petersen to speak. After everyone had arrived and gathered in the area the conference was being held in, the three principals emerged. Harry Westwood was the first to speak.
"I'd like to start by congratulating my team on their amazing performances in the past few races. It's so satisfying to see everyone bonding together so effectively. The guys at the factory and in the garage have been amazing and we've seen some stellar drives from Will and Tumo, particularly in Spa. We are all hoping to keep this momentum going into the last few rounds. But that isn't why I called this press conference today. As you all know, Westwood have signed four drivers and so far we've only loaned out one! Well, we're here to announce what's going on with our lineup next year. Firstly, we will be continuing with our current lineup of Tumo Kinnumen and Will Hoskins for next year, in the hope we can repeat or better the success of this year. Which leaves me to discuss the futures of the other two. I can announce Jochem Van Snelheid will not be driving with DS next year. Instead, we have agreed a deal with Warrior for his services, while he acts as a reserve driver. I will let Dylan speak on this matter as well, but we wish him all the best for next year." DL: "We cannot wait for young Jochem to hop into the car. He's the future of this sport and to have in race at our team is a priviledge. We send our greatest thanks to Harry and Westwood for loaning him for a season, and we'll do the very best to make sure van Snelheid can help us as much as we can help him. He is the future of the sport and we cannot wait to see him in flying in our colours at Adelaide in Round One next season." HW: "We also have plans for Lewis Ellington. While we were initially excited for him to be joining this team, in the months since then both parties agreed that it was better to part ways. However we wish him all the best for next season, where we can confirm he will be driving for AMR alongside Felix Beyer, meaning he will once again team up with Felix for the first time since season one." RP: ”We see limitless potential in Lewis, and felt it was a shame he was sat on the sidelines for so long. Today, we have righted that wrong, and given a very promising driver another chance to show the world what he’s got!” HW: "So that's everything on drivers, settling any speculation. We will now take any questions." Press: "Dylan, who will be partnering with Jochem next year? Will you be keeping one of your drivers or getting in more new talent?" DL: "I won't tell you for certain, but we're very happy with both our drivers at the moment. With that said, things might be looking better for a certain Australian regarding next year." Press: "Harry, there's been a lot of discussion and controversy regarding engines recently. What's your take on the engine regulations and variety?" HW: "I personally don't get the calls for change already. Yes Honda have some fantastic hybrid technology in development, but why should the CEO, Nic, have to adjust the rules to suit one engine supplier? It's childish. They've produced a fantastic unit as it is, so I see no problem with the regulations. Besides, hybrid technology would hugely drive up costs, and as an engine manufacturer, this team is not prepared to sustain that increase in spending. As for variety, yeah that might be nice, but most of the noise difference comes from the exhausts and the diffuser, and in the world of Formula One, the engines sound largely similar and have for some time. I don't see how different sounding engines will provide more action packed, high octane thrills for the fans." Press: "What is your opinion on the Franklin-Honda feud, and should they split, would you be looking to supply them?" HW: "I have said many times before, Westwood would love to supply other teams with engine packages. However, we have had a lack of interest so far. If anyone, including Franklin, wish to run our engines, they will approach us. If not, we'll just come across as desperate. Yes it'd be great to supply a championship winning team but we also want to focus on our own performance and success. I haven't got time for anymore today guys, but I'd like to thank Dylan and Ryan for coming today, and of course, all of you. We look forward to seeing you all in Italy!"
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