On Thursday, Mercedes-Benz quelled rumors surrounding Lewis Hamilton’s potential departure to another Formula 1 team or retirement from the sport by confirming a two-year contract extension with the celebrated driver. This guarantees Hamilton’s role with Mercedes for the 2024 and 2025 racing seasons, and potentially beyond.
The team further revealed that they have also prolonged the contract of George Russell, Hamilton’s teammate, for another two years. Russell became part of the Mercedes team in 2022, having made his Formula 1 debut with Williams in 2019.
Lewis Hamilton began his Formula 1 career in 2007 with McLaren, securing his initial championship in 2008. He then transferred to Mercedes in 2013 and succeeded in winning six additional titles, tying him with Michael Schumacher’s record-holding seven championships. In the 2021 season, Hamilton appeared poised to capture an eighth championship. However, a contentious final race in Abu Dhabi culminated in Max Verstappen of Red Bull Racing securing the title instead.
The introduction of new design regulations in 2022 has hampered Mercedes’ competitiveness, fueling speculation that Hamilton might switch to a different team, specifically Ferrari. Additionally, there were rumors suggesting Hamilton might exit Formula 1 to pursue other opportunities, such as potentially launching a fashion brand. Nonetheless, his professional trajectory in Formula 1 is now solidified for the coming two years.
Hamilton issued a formal statement following the announcement, declaring, “Achieving preeminence requires a consistent and concerted effort, entailing dedication, perseverance, and hard work. It is an honor to have our accomplishments etched into the annals of history alongside this remarkable team. We are unified in our resolve to achieve even greater milestones, and our collective aspirations remain unfulfilled.”
Table of Contents
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Lewis Hamilton Contract Extension
What is the duration of Lewis Hamilton’s new contract with Mercedes-Benz?
The new contract for Lewis Hamilton with Mercedes-Benz extends for an additional two years, covering the 2024 and 2025 Formula 1 seasons.
Who else from the team has received a contract extension?
George Russell, Hamilton’s teammate, has also received a two-year contract extension with Mercedes-Benz, ensuring his position on the team through the 2025 season.
What teams were speculated as potential destinations for Hamilton before this announcement?
Before the announcement, there was speculation that Lewis Hamilton might switch to another team, notably Ferrari, or even retire from Formula 1 altogether.
When did Lewis Hamilton join Mercedes?
Lewis Hamilton joined the Mercedes Formula 1 team in 2013, after beginning his Formula 1 career with McLaren in 2007 and winning his first championship in 2008.
When did George Russell join Mercedes?
George Russell joined the Mercedes team in 2022, following his Formula 1 debut with Williams in 2019.
What was Hamilton’s reaction to the contract extension?
Hamilton issued a formal statement expressing that achieving preeminence requires dedication, perseverance, and hard work. He emphasized the honor of having their accomplishments recognized and stated that he and the team have a collective resolve to achieve even greater milestones.
Did the new F1 design regulations for 2022 affect Mercedes’ performance?
Yes, the introduction of new design regulations in the 2022 season impacted Mercedes’ competitiveness. This led to speculation surrounding Hamilton’s future with the team and the sport.
What does this contract extension mean for Hamilton’s retirement plans?
The two-year contract extension essentially quells rumors and speculation about Lewis Hamilton’s potential retirement from Formula 1, at least for the next two years.
More about Lewis Hamilton Contract Extension
- Mercedes-Benz Official Announcement
- Formula 1 Design Regulations for 2022
- Lewis Hamilton Career Highlights
- George Russell’s Formula 1 Debut
- 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Controversy
- Michael Schumacher’s Championship Record
- Ferrari Team News