Lewis Hamilton new deal latest and option to quit explained

Hamilton opens up on plans to remain in F1 ahead of 2023 season

Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes are yet to agree terms on the seven-time champion’s future with a new deal not finalised. Both sides appear keen to secure a new contract but have failed to put pen to paper raising fears among fans this could be the end of the road for the 38-year-old.

Why a deal could be signed

Hamilton and team boss Toto Wolff has publicly revealed an intention to remain working together. Hamilton described Mercedes as his “family” and even suggested their lack of performance would not encourage him to leave.

Ahead of the winter, the Briton mentioned wanting a new “multi-year” deal which could keep him in F1 until at least the end of 2025. Wolff is confident he can push a deal over the line, revealing he had no alternatives if Hamilton walked away.

He told Motorsport.com: “I think it may sound naïve, but I really struggle to think of a Plan B, if my Plan A is still the one that is my favourite. I don’t want to engage in discussions with other drivers, because I’m happy with the ones that are in the team, that’s for sure. At the moment, there is no Plan B. It’s Lewis.”

But, sources at London Insider have claimed Hamilton could wait until August to agree terms to see how quickly Mercedes catch frontrunners Red Bull.

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What effect has George Russell had?

George Russell starred at Mercedes in his debut season as he beat Hamilton in the Championship standings. However, he has started 2023 just as strongly by outqualifying Hamilton in all three races so far.

After Australia, Sky Sports host Martin Brundle suggested Mercedes may now see Russell as a capable replacement for Hamilton. Brundle said: “George is driving beautifully. I think there’s very little to choose between those two and that is a massive compliment to George Russell because we know just how brilliant Lewis Hamilton is and how motivated he is.

“What it tells Mercedes-Benz is for example, should Lewis retire, decides he’s had enough at any given point, they’ve got George Russell already who is really up to the job in qualifying and in the race.” Has the time come when Hamilton needs Mercedes more than the Silver Arrows need him?

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Will Hamilton join another team?

Pundits have suggested Hamilton could walk away from Mercedes to secure a title-winning car. Red Bull is off the cards while Max Verstappen is at the team, leaving Ferrari as his only other option.

Former TV pundit Eddie Jordan suggested a transfer to the Scuderia is what “Formula One needs”. However, Hamilton shot down rumours he could be tempted to walk away from the German manufacturer last month.

He told Sky Sports: “I still have 100 per cent belief in this team, it is my family and I’ve been here a long time, so I don’t plan on going anywhere else.”

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