Toto Wolff Explains Reason for Handing Lewis Hamilton Mammoth TWO-YEAR Contract

At the start of the season, it became clear that Mercedes would draw the most attention in terms of their driver lineup for 2022. However, the Silver Arrows made a huge announcement at the Austrian Grand Prix with Lewis Hamilton signing a new contract until the end of the 2023 F1 season.

This announcement comes as exciting news for fans of the defending champions, who wondered what the future of both drivers held after the current season. After this official announcement, team boss Toto Wolff shared his opinion on Hamilton.

Mercedes CEO Toto Wolff believes Lewis Hamilton is the best driver for the team

With new technical regulations coming in effect next season, the Silver Arrows face one of their biggest battles. Although they trail Red Bull in both championships this season, they also need to confirm their driver lineup for 2022.

With Hamilton‘s earlier contract expiring at the end of this season, many wondered how Mercedes would deal with this situation. However, this contract extension speaks volumes of the faith shown by the team in Hamilton, which Wolff echoed.

The Austrian said, “As we enter a new era of F1 from 2022 onwards, there can be no better driver to have in our team than Lewis. His achievements in this sport speak for themselves, and with his experience, speed and racecraft, he is at the peak of his powers.”

With the Briton’s future now sealed with Mercedes, he can now fully focus on the ongoing season. With just 18 points separating him and Max Verstappen, the 36-year-old will hope to reduce the gap at the ongoing Austrian Grand Prix.

Wolff: Hamilton can continue racing as long as he wants

Wolff believes the seven-time world champion is still at the top of the mountain, and can now focus on giving it everything on track. “We are relishing the battle we have on our hands this year – and that’s why we also wanted to agree this contract early, so we have no distractions from the competition on track,” said the 49-year-old.

“I have always said that as long as Lewis still possesses the fire for racing, he can continue as long as he wants.”

Can Hamilton clinch a record-breaking eighth world title this season? Well, if he doesn’t do it in 2021, he will certainly have two more attempts to do it with the Silver Arrows.

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