Lewis Hamilton ‘Wanted to Sign for a Longer Period of Time’ With Mercedes: Former F1 Driver

After weeks of speculation of whether Lewis Hamilton will be behind the wheel for 2021, for getting more money and bonuses, getting to veto his teammate, and getting a fancy car have finally been put to rest as the team confirmed that he will be on the starting grid for the new season.

While the public perception is that the Briton is happy with his one-year contract, former Formula One driver, Robert Doornbos, believes that Hamilton did not tick all the boxes in his new deal.

Lewis joined Mercedes in 2013 after Michael Schumacher’s departure; a gamble that has paid off for both parties as Hamilton won six championships and helping the team win seven back-to-back Constructors’ championship.

But how much can the Brackley team get from the British driver who isn’t getting any younger?

Time is against the Lewis Hamilton

Lewis Hamilton will be on the grid for 2021, but after that, the future holds its own mystery for the Knight.

In an interview with MotorSport, Doornbos said, “Both sides have had to compromise anyway. I think Mercedes ultimately held their ground and Hamilton didn’t get everything he wanted.

“I think Hamilton wanted to sign for a longer period of time and had to compromise on that point. Both sides have had to compromise anyway.”

He concluded, “It is true that the cars will change enormously in 2022 when the new technical regulations come into effect. And indeed Lewis has no crystal ball, he doesn’t know which team is the best. But where should Hamilton go? Ferrari has no place. in my view, he had to give up there [when it comes to the duration of his new contract]. (translated via Google Translate)

An heir to the throne

George Russell could be called in to fill that Mercedes seat once it gets vacant for 2022. He was impressive throughout the 2020 season, pushing the lackluster William’s car into Q2, and out-qualifying his teammate all time.

When Hamilton contracted COVID-19, Russell was given the keys to the w11 for the Sakhir Grand Prix and his performance raised eyebrows.

“Russell went really fast in that car. I’m not saying he can become seven-time world champion like Hamilton. But it will certainly have done something in the negotiations.”

No matter what went on the negotiations, it is now confirmed that the Knight will drive for the team in 2021.

Thus, the grid is all confirmed for the upcoming season. All drivers and teams will be competing for different aims, with Hamilton’s target being a little more historical than the others.

Do you think Lewis Hamilton will be able to clinch a record-breaking eighth title?

Also Read: Ex-F1 Driver Explains Why Lewis Hamilton Would Welcome Verstappen at Mercedes