Mercedes and Lewis Hamilton are anticipated to finalize their new partnership before Formula 1 pre-season testing in 2021.
Current engagement between the parties is expiring at the end of this year. Reportedly, both parties are expected to continue their partnership beyond 2020.
Normally, such contracts are finalized at this stage of year. However, COVID-19 has impacted the timelines of World Champion’s contract and both parties are yet to finalize their terms of engagement.
Toto Wolff, Mercedes boss, has re-negotiated his terms of stay at German manufacturer after his contract expiry. He spent much time in negotiating his terms of business for next three years.
Moreover, he also negotiated shareholding arrangement with INEOS., chemical company.
Mercedes trust on Hamilton
Wolff emphasized that there is no point of contention between Mercedes and Hamilton. However, there is no rush at this point to close contract.
“From my point of view, we had such a successful run at championships in the past seven years, that there is no reason not to continue,” said Wolff, when asked about the latest situation.
“He [Hamilton] is on the top of his game and he will be for a while. And that’s why continuing together is a no brainer.
Read More: Hamilton revealed COVID-19 effects
“If you refer to why haven’t we got a signed contract? The reason is simple. We always prioritised about getting this championship done, and not being distracted by sometimes difficult discussions, as is the nature of negotiation. But then COVID struck.
“So it has delayed us a little bit, but we are not worried in eventually getting it done.
“We are putting no special date to it, because we don’t want to be put under pressure from you guys [the media] while it’s not signed yet. So sooner or later, it needs to be done. At the latest before we go testing.”
COVID-19 pandemic delayed 2020 season, which has pushed pre-seaons 2021 testing in March.
Ola Kallenius, Mercedes chairman, showed his trust in Hamilton that he was the right man for the company.
“I think Lewis Hamilton is the greatest, or one of the greatest, race drivers of all time,” he said. “I’ve known him since he was a teenager.
“I think his dedication and professionalism when it comes to how he has dedicated his life to being the greatest is remarkable and applaudable. And he’s a nice guy, too.
“So we would like to continue this partnership. And then it’s up to Toto in his role to get that done.”
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