Open talks about the future of one of Formula 1’s oldest drivers who currently works for Mercedes
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has spoken openly about How have the talks progressed? lewis hamilton regarding his contract extension, debunking any rumors about a potential move to Ferrari for the seven-time world champion. Currently, Hamilton’s contract runs through the end of the 2023 season, and he has yet to agree to an extension with Mercedes.
Amid speculation about Hamilton’s future in Formula 1, rumors have surfaced about the possibility of the Briton signing a contract with Ferrari, but Wolff was keen to rule out any prospect of Hamilton moving to Maranello. “These rumors (about Hamilton moving to Ferrari) come up every two years when we have to sign a new contract,” Wolff told oe24. “But none of this is true. We discuss normally, without any time pressure.”
The discomfort of negotiations
The Mercedes team boss also admitted that finds negotiating with Hamilton uncomfortable, but he is sure that both will reach an agreement for the next season. “It’s just awkward that two friends, two blood brothers who have been through a lot for ten years, suddenly have to argue about money,” he explained.
Wolff was very sure about the future of Hamilton’s contract. “I am firmly convinced that we will meet, I have not the slightest doubt.” Despite being 38, Hamilton is not the oldest driver on the current F1 grid, as his former McLaren teammate Fernando Alonso is finding new success at Aston Martin at the age of 41.
Hamilton in competition for longest
Wolff also can’t imagine Hamilton out of racing or out of Mercedes. “If we give Lewis a competitive car, will win for a long time. Look at Tom Brady and what he was still capable of doing in his 40s.” Hamilton currently sits fourth in the Drivers’ Championship, two positions and 16 points ahead of his Mercedes team-mate George Russell.
likewise, too has achieved the only podium finish for the Silver Arrows of the season so far, when he came in second in Australia. It is clear that despite the challenges of the negotiations and rumors of a possible transfer, Toto Wolff and Mercedes are determined to keep Lewis Hamilton in their team, confident in his ability to remain a competitive driver in F1. .