Finally, the long storied chapter of Lewis Hamilton and speculations over his new contract has come to an end. Yesterday, the Brackley-based outfit put their fans out of their misery by making it official that the seven-time world champion has signed on the dotted line and will drive for them in the 2021 season.
The contract saga had numerous twists and turns, a number of obstacles, as well as a good number of people’s opinions regarding it. Even team boss Toto Wolff admitted that they had learned from delaying talks. But in the end, the deal was a relatively simplistic one. Hamilton has signed on for another year.
The monetary value of Hamilton’s contract was not made official. However, Mercedes boss Toto Wolff hints that it may be on the lower side considering the effects of the pandemic and how Lewis was well versed with it.
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The Austrian said, “Lewis recognizes that he’s one in 2,000 that we have within our team, engine and chassis, and that it’s not two superstars but we are 2,000 superstars and each of us contributes to the team’s success.
“And he has this perspective on the wider world out there. It was a very tough year for us personally, from a health standpoint and also from an economic standpoint.
“So, he knew that even though he has delivered on his side there is an economical reality out there that is important to respect.”
Mercedes boss reiterates Lewis Hamilton’s importance to the Silver Arrows
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The partnership between Mercedes and Hamilton has yielded incredible success for both parties. Having joined forces in 2014, The team has gone on to win every single Constructors’ title since then whereas Hamilton has won six Drivers’ Championship crowns.
Heading into the new season with a lot of silverware on their minds, Wolff said, “He’s the best driver, he has a huge global following, much beyond the racing fan, and he has won seven championships without making major mistakes in the last few years. He is an important pillar of the team’s success.”
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2021 is a season of change. Although a large chunk of the car has been undeveloped, teams have had to make some aero dynamic changes that could have an effect on how the championship plays out.
Will we see the Silver Arrows continue their dominance? Or will we see someone else rise to the challenge? We shall soon find out.