Toto Wolff Open to Completing Mercedes Contract Talks with Lewis Hamilton over Zoom

Although the F1 season is now nearing its conclusion, Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes have already won both titles on offer this year. However, there was still an opportunity for the Briton to create some more new records and history.

Unfortunately, having tested positive for coronavirus, he will now have to undergo an isolation period. This translated into George Russell getting the call-up to replace Hamilton in the Mercedes W11 for the Sakhir GP weekend.

However, the subject of Hamilton’s contract is something that has featured in discussions more times than not this season. However, Mercedes team principal, Toto Wolff, has said that no talks regarding the same will commence until Hamilton fully recovers.

Lewis Hamilton being COVID negative the priority, says Wolff

Speaking in an interview, Wolff stated, “The timeline is being pushed back until he recovers.

“We know that we need to get it done – pretty well aware both of us – but the priority now is of him getting back on his feet and being [Covid] negative. Then we will meet or Zoom in order to put pen to paper.”

Many consider Russell as one of the options to succeed Hamilton when he eventually retires from the sport. Wolff is insistent that the 22-year-old Briton’s performances will play no role in their decision to extend Hamilton’s contract.

“I respect very much who he is and how he drives, his records, and whatever happens this weekend or next has no influence on our talks,” concluded Wolff.

The seven-time World Champion might look to seal a deal before the year is out

The Hamilton-Mercedes combination is something that no F1 fan doubts will continue in the near future, at the very least. Both parties have already expressed their intention to sign the extension and put the speculation to rest.

As such, Hamilton’s focus will fixate on getting better and recovering from the virus. Following that, his fans and followers would hope that the 35-year-old extends his contract to continue breaking further F1 records.