Negotiations for Lewis Hamilton’s contract extension with Mercedes have been dragging on for months, and former Formula 1 champion Damon Hill believes that the Silver Arrows “bureaucracy” are causing the delay.
With just six months remaining on his current deal, Hamilton has expressed his desire to continue racing in Formula 1 and has shown a clear preference for staying with Mercedes.
Speculations of a potential move to Ferrari have lacked substance, further solidifying Mercedes as his primary option. However, the contract talks have yet to reach a resolution.
Team principal Toto Wolff had hinted before the Canadian Grand Prix that an announcement could be imminent, but no official confirmation has been made.
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When asked about the contract, Hamilton simply stated: “It’ll be done when it’s done,” after his podium finish in Montreal.
Mirror Sport has learned that an immediate extension announcement is not expected, leaving fans and pundits in anticipation.
Damon Hill, the 1996 world champion and Sky Sports F1 pundit, has shared his theory on the prolonged negotiations.
According to Hill, there are rumours that Hamilton is finalising a much longer-term deal that goes beyond his racing career, involving the car company itself, which adds to the bureaucratic complexities.
Hill expressed his admiration for Hamilton’s resilience amid doubts over his future in F1 just 18 months ago.
Following the controversial finale to the 2021 title race in Abu Dhabi, Hamilton’s public silence fuelled speculation of retirement, but he ultimately chose to continue racing.
Hill commended Hamilton’s ability to overcome challenges and noted that he has reached a new level of performance, even as Mercedes’ competitiveness has declined.
“He is starting to gel with that car now and he has solved some of the problems he faced,” Hill remarked.
“So I would be amazed if he doesn’t want to go out on a high by winning that eighth title, and he is absolutely motivated by that. He has got that longevity and he looks after himself.”
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Hill emphasised Hamilton’s need for a competitive car and the opportunity to rise to the challenge, highlighting that a happy Hamilton is a fast Hamilton.
The seven-time world champion’s motivation to secure an eighth title remains strong, and Hill believes he will continue to push himself.
While the contract negotiations continue, Hamilton’s focus remains on achieving success on the track.