Former Formula 1 driver Martin Brundle has shared insights into Lewis Hamilton’s motivations for extending his contract with Mercedes until the end of 2025.
Brundle believes that Hamilton is fuelled by the desire to avenge his loss in the controversial 2021 season, where he narrowly missed securing his eighth world title after being overtaken by Max Verstappen on the final lap.
While Hamilton himself has downplayed the notion of seeking revenge, Brundle expressed a different perspective during an interview with Sky Sports, stating, “I think it’s very much driving him.
“There are many who believe that, had he won the eighth title in Abu Dhabi in 2021, he would have retired.
Want to work in Formula 1? Browse the latest F1 job vacancies
“So I think it’s a big driving force for him to leave the championship tally at eight or more.”
The negotiations surrounding Hamilton’s contract extension revolved around the finer details of the deal.
Addressing the question of whether salary played a significant role in Hamilton’s decision, Brundle commented, “He will value himself as the same as Max, as a seven-time world champion.
“He knows he’s still got the speed. It will be tens of millions, plus bonuses.”
Brundle also speculated that Hamilton and his team would have meticulously negotiated various aspects, both on and off the track, including Hamilton’s commitments to media and marketing.
Hamilton, known for his prowess both in and out of the car, is likely to have sought flexibility in these areas as part of the agreement.
Mercedes has faced challenges in adapting to the new regulations, prompting changes to the car concept earlier this year due to a shift in technical leadership within the team.
Brundle emphasised that these car-related issues could significantly impact the longevity of Hamilton and his new teammate, George Russell, in the Mercedes team.
“They’ve got to bin this car because they’ve had one-and-a-half seasons of trying to make it work, make it talk to the drivers, be predictable, and it just isn’t,” explained Brundle.
He further noted that while the car occasionally displayed impressive pace, it lacked a stable and understandable platform for consistent performance.
READ: Lewis Hamilton breaks silence on Apple pulling the plug
“Brundle suggested that Mercedes’ competitiveness in the upcoming season would depend on the developments made between January and March next year.
Hamilton has found himself frustrated in the new era of regulations, failing to have a car that can help him secure redemption for the ending of the 2021 season.
With two more years at Mercedes, the Brit will be hoping that the changes made to the car this season will put them in a position where they can fight near the front in the 2024 and 2025 seasons.