Lewis Hamilton could put an early end to the rumors that he will drive for Scuderia Ferrari in the 2021 Formula 1 season, as he is reportedly nearing a contract extension with Mercedes.
With such a limited number of drivers under contract beyond the conclusion of the 2020 Formula 1 season following a Silly Season that was rather tame and featured only two changes, there has been much talk about potential driver moves that could take place ahead of next year.
However, Lewis Hamilton looks set to extend his fruitful partnership with Mercedes with reports claiming that talks over a contract extension are at an ‘advanced stage’. Hamilton’s current contract is believed to be worth somewhere in the region of $100 million but that figure is expected to rise in this new deal. According to Italian newspaper ‘La Gazetta dello Sport’, Hamilton is set to sign until 2022.
“In the meantime, Lewis Hamilton is in discussion with Mercedes over the renewal of his contract,” wrote Luigi Perna on Friday. – “The negotiation, which will see Hamilton extend his stay until the end of 2022, is at an advanced stage and is worth in the region of 45m Euros a year with bonuses.”
There were rumours that Scuderia Ferrari were planning a shock move for the 35-year-old but those were laid to rest after the Italians confirmed that Charles Leclerc will be with them until at least 2024. The likes of Red Bull and Ferrari will be hoping to offer more of a challenge to Mercedes, as pre-season testing is set to get underway in February ahead of the opening Grand Prix in Australia in March.
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