F1 News: Lewis Hamilton's Mercedes Contract Questioned - "Might Be Wanting Fewer Days"
Former F1 driver David Coulthard has given an insight into what might be causing the delays in Lewis Hamilton's Mercedes contract extension as he questions whether the British driver's wants align with the teams.
In what seems to be an 'easy' discussion to fans with both Hamilton and Mercedes CEO Toto Wolff keen to continue their working relationship, there have been significant delays in getting the contract extension finalised.
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Although at this point no one foresees the seven-time champion going elsewhere, the delay has raised questions amongst fans as to whether there are issues behind closed doors. Hamilton has confirmed that he is eager to continue racing to achieve his eighth championship title. However, with the current performance of the team, this could take longer than he would have initially hoped.
During an interview with Irish News, Coulthard has given some insight into what he believes is going on with the highly-anticipated contract. He explained:
“I don’t think there is any realistic chance that Lewis [Hamilton] will leave Mercedes unless there is a major fallout. And I can’t see that happening.
“Who would the major fallout be with? Even if it was with Toto [Wolff], Lewis’ relationship with Mercedes’ parent company Daimler is much longer than Toto’s emergence as team principal of Mercedes.
“For me, it is just a case of when they get it done. I am not aware Lewis is having a change of heart about whether he wants to go racing or not, and I don’t think Mercedes are having second doubts."
Coulthard continued:
“Mercedes will want a certain amount of time from Lewis for their partners. Mercedes will have sold sponsorship on obtaining access to their drivers.
“Some businesses will have signed up with the Silver Arrows because Lewis is there, rather than George Russell. Perhaps Lewis might be wanting to do fewer days or have fewer commitments?
“What Lewis will be signing up for goes way beyond him driving at a grand prix. It is about what rights he retains in terms of his image, and what rights he sells to the team. Mercedes are buying more than just Lewis’ driving services. They are buying his promotional image and his PR image.”