Lewis Hamilton pens new two-year Mercedes deal to continue Max Verstappen battle
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Lewis Hamilton has signed a new two-year contract with Mercedes that will keep him with the constructor until 2023.
The deal will extend Hamilton's stay with the team into nine seasons and ensure he is racing in F1 until he is at least 38.
Hamilton and Mercedes have enjoyed almost unprecedented success since the Briton joined from McLaren in 2012.
He has won six drivers' championships with the German outfit, while Mercedes have won the last seven constructors' titles.
The challenge now for the pair is to sustain that dominance once F1's new regulations come into force in 2022 – and it's a challenge that Hamilton is looking forward to.
"It is hard to believe it's been nearly nine years working with this incredible team and I'm excited we're going to continue our partnership for two more years," said Hamilton.
"We've accomplished so much together but we still have a lot to achieve, both on and off the track. I'm incredibly proud and grateful of how Mercedes has supported me in my drive to improve diversity and equality in our sport.
"They have held themselves accountable and made important strides in creating a more diverse team and inclusive environment. Thank you to all the dedicated and talented individuals at Mercedes whose hard work makes it all possible and the Board for their continued trust in me.
"We're entering a new era of car which will be challenging and exciting and I can't wait to see what else we can achieve together."
Hamilton's new contract quashes speculation over the 36-year-old's future.
The star left it until February to sign a new one-year-contract ahead of the 2021 season, sparking rumours over his future.
Negotiations this time have been wrapped up swiftly, meaning Hamilton and Mercedes can concentrate on reeling in Max Verstappen, who holds an 18-point lead at the top of the drivers' championship.
It also means that F1 fans can look forward to more battles between the two drivers, with Verstappen – 13 years Hamilton's junior – contracted to Red Bull until 2024.
- F1
- Lewis Hamilton
- Max Verstappen
- Mercedes
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