Formula One ace Lewis Hamilton has been part of Mercedes since 2013. However, he has driven Mercedes-powered cars all his F1 career. Hence, he has a special collaboration with the German manufacturers. Nobody wants to see the partnership end abruptly, especially the Mercedes and Hamilton fans. But the current contract between Hamilton and the German team expires after the ongoing season. That’s why the media has been speculating over the contract extension of the seven-time champion for as long as the start of the current season.
There were even rumors about Ferrari showing interest in signing the seven-time champion. However, Lewis Hamilton said several times before that until the chemistry between him and Toto Wolff stays fine, he won’t leave Mercedes. Even the Mercedes Boss echoed the same sentiment. He mentioned that they have extended the contract emotionally; both parties only need to sign it formally. Recently, in an interview with Sky Sports, Toto Wolff stated that Lewis Hamilton has agreed to a two-year deal with Mercedes only.
Why Did Lewis Hamilton Sign A Two-Year Deal Instead Of A Long-Term Deal?
There were talks ahead of the Italian Grand Prix that Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes collaboration will stay intact until 2025. Lewis won 82 races, 146 podiums, and a remarkable six titles with Mercedes. But if he stays with the Silver Arrows until 2025, then it means he will wait until the current cycle of regulations ends. Moreover, Hamilton will be free to leave Mercedes if they fail to provide him with a championship-winning car like they have in the past two years. Also, the trouble with a long-term plan like a five-year contract is there has to be an escape clause, especially if Mercedes fails with the car again.
Toto Wolff recently discussed that they have a dynamic environment at Team Mercedes, and an escape clause can ruin that. Hence, it was ideal not to entertain that long-term plan. Adding to that, the Principal mentioned that they are seeing only two years as a foreseeable future with Lewis Hamilton. That’s why they have committed to each other with a new two-year contract. Wolff believes Hamilton will continue to play an essential role in Mercedes even when he is driving no more for them. According to him, the contract should benefit both parties. But now, the onus is on them to provide Hamilton with a championship-winning car.
What Kind Of Future Can The Seven-Time Champion Expect To Have With Mercedes?
Talking more about the contract, the Principal is more than assured that Lewis Hamilton will end his career with Mercedes. He feels that Hamilton can become a future Team Principal of Mercedes or even CEO. And undoubtedly, it is hard to imagine Lewis Hamilton driving for any other team.
In the interview with Sky Sports, Toto Wolff mentioned that they discussed the sponsorships and how Hamilton will have future involvements with the team. There is a reason why it took so long for the team to sign an extension. Wolff believes Hamilton has the right personality and skills to be a team boss or CEO. Moreover, Wolff believes Hamilton helped shape the sport and will forever be part of Formula One.
