OPINION : What Lewis Hamilton Seeks from His Next Contract with Mercedes F1

Lewis Hamilton has started 2021 without a contract renewal with Mercedes. However, expectations remain that he will continue the partnership. While they were expected to finish negotiations by Christmas, it appears the deal will ultimately be struck in 2021.

Hamilton has clarified a few aspects he wants to include in his new contract. After the COVID-stricken season, the Briton asked for more family time this season. Few reports have suggested that the seven-time world champion is also looking for a pay raise.

He is an important persona on and off the grid, bringing a lot of eyes and traction to the team he drives for. The Briton is also at the forefront of causes regarding social justice.

For his commendable work, Hamilton was recently honored with the Knighthood from the British Royal Family.

One of the key things to consider is Hamilton’s age, the Briton turns thirty-six on the January 7. Reports have stated that the seven-time world champion was seeking a four-year deal with $50 million each year.

However, Hamilton’s demands were a little too costly for Mercedes. They were hoping to sign Hamilton for two-years with a possible extension for another year.

The team hopes to move on to a younger driver soon, but Hamilton is seeking a long-term contract before retiring from Mercedes. Briton will also keep the ongoing pandemic in mind during his negotiations.

‘Rollercoaster of emotions’ – Lewis Hamilton on 2020

The Mercedes driver equaled Michael Schumacher‘s record of seven world titles. He also broke the German’s record of most Formula 1 race wins. However, the champion tested COVID-positive after the Bahrain Grand Prix, forcing him to sit out the Sakhir GP.

He said, “It has been an incredible year in terms of team success, but such a rollercoaster of emotions this year with so much happening with the pandemic.”

Mercedes became the first team in Formula 1’s history to win seven continuous constructor championship. The duo has dominated the hybrid era, and they will hope to make the most of next season and claim their respective eighth championships.

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