Lewis Hamilton Contract Talks: Mercedes F1 Boss Finally Provides an Update

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff had an honest admission to make regarding Lewis Hamilton. There has been immense speculation regarding Hamilton’s future with Mercedes. However, both were parties were quick to shoot down baseless rumours.

Hamilton,35, will be out of contract at the end of 2020. News from the rumour mill suggested the Briton was keen to resign with Mercedes, provided they match his price. In 2018, Hamilton signed a two-year extension with the team valued at $100 million.

Allegedly, the Brit wants a cool $66 million a year contract. But, Mercedes who ultimately hold all the aces are apparently rethinking this hefty request. There were even rumours of Mercedes leaving the sport after 2021, but these were rejected by Toto Wolff.

In an interview with Auto Motor und Sport, Wolff was candid when asked about Lewis Hamilton and his future with the team.

“The last time [Lewis and I] met was at the Christmas party. We chatted a bit about the future. Since then we have only talked on WhatsApp. When you’ve been on your toes for ten months, it’s important to take a break. That’s why we decided to leave ourselves alone in December and January. When it starts again in February, we will sit down and discuss.”

Wolff also revealed that serious contract negotiations are yet to begin, but the team are hoping to reach common ground as quickly as possible.

“As a driver at his level, Lewis always has options. The same applies to us. As long as we build a fast car, we’ll always be in a situation where we can pick the drivers.”

Hamilton should attribute a part of his success to Mercedes. The Brackley outfit has consistently delivered for the past six seasons by producing a competitive car every year. Despite regulation changes, Mercedes has remained head and shoulders above the rest in all aspects of the sport.

The team have won six consecutive championships since the start of the turbo-hybrid era and Wolff hasn’t missed this fact.

“Lewis wants to drive the fastest car and we want the best driver,” added Wolff.

Mercedes will unveil its 2020 car on February 14. The only question that remains is, will the Silver Arrows reign supreme once again?