I'm glad it has been confirmed at last.
Going to now add bit's of my thoughts to all the others. RB were very strong at the end of the last season, they were always going to be strong this season as well. Merc knew that as most of us did. Merc though made the decision to not develop this years car and concentrate on next years car. Obviously RB have developed this years car, just how much time and effort that has taken only RB know. But one thing we all know for certain is that RB's engine next year will be a solo effort, Mercs engine will be completely new and had a year of development. Now when you look at the fact that Lewis signed a 2 year contract, it says to me that he wants that 8th title but isn't sure he can get it this year, so hedging his bets to get it next year with the rule changes. I would lay money on it that Lewis has a 1 year get out clause in his contract so that he can walk away at the end of next year. That would have allowed enough time for George to push him to the limit, let him get the 8th WDC, walk away and then let George grab his first WDC. Possibly with Lando as his number 2.