Lewis Hamilton “Only Looking for a One-Year Contract” With Mercedes: Schumacher

Lewis Hamilton won his ninth race of the season at Imola last weekend. A Mercedes 1-2 finish secured Mercedes their seventh consecutive constructor title this season. Meanwhile, Lewis Hamilton stands to clinch his seventh world title with a win at the Turkish Grand Prix.

The contract between Mercedes and Hamilton ends at the end of this year, and the future of the pair remains unclear. Hamilton and Mercedes have still not signed a deal for the following seasons.

Ralf Schumacher in his Sky Sports column reported that he believes the hesitation could be because Hamilton has had enough. According to Schumacher, it takes a lot of effort to win a championship, and it is understandable that sometimes it can get too much.

Ralf Schumacher explained, “Absolutely understandable if at some point he had enough.

“I believe that he is only looking for a one-year contract in order to be able to sound out the situation better and to assess what is after the 2021 season. After that, Mercedes doesn’t necessarily have to be the best team in Formula 1.”

Will Lewis Hamilton go for the record-breaking eight world title?

According to Schumacher, the Briton driver has only two options, either break the partnership or extend the contract.

He said, “I don’t see any other option for him. The all-important question is: how much motivation does he still have? I am curious how he will decide. But he will certainly take the 8th title with him next year.”

At the end of Imola Grand Prix, lewis Hamilton hinted that he might not come back to the grid next year. However, Martin Brundle called out the champion’s bluff. He stated that Lewis Hamilton will certainly be on the in 2021.

Mika Hakkinen was seen extending his admiration to Hamilton for being able to focus for over a decade now. Toto Wolff has expressed his desire to close the deal before Christmas break. Meanwhile, Hamilton has expressed that he wants to focus on racing and deal with the contract after winning the world title.

Lewis Hamilton broke Michael Schumacher’s record of 92 race wins this season. He is set to equal Schumacher’s record of seven world championships this season, and will certainly look to break the record with another championship next year.

It appears that Mercedes will still have the edge next season. However, with new regulations applicable from 2022, things might change.

Therefore, it could be argued that Hamilton will certainly continue with Mercedes next season. However, it remains to be seen what unfolds after.

Read More – Martin Brundle Calls Out Lewis Hamilton’s Bluff of Leaving F1