George Russell has added a new element to the conversation, with the youg driver being seen as a future Mercedes star after his impressive display stepping in for Hamilton late in the season.
Hamilton is said to be demanding a four-year deal worth $200million with Mercedes’ parent company Daimler reportedly keen not to commit to four years, according to Italian outlet Corriere dello Sport.
With Hamilton turning 36 this month, the performances of Russell, 22, have seemingly had an impact on their thoughts for the future.
But team principal Totto Wolff, who himself has recently agreed a new deal, insists they are planning to keep Hamilton.Â
“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,” Wolff said when asked about his team’s relationship with Hamilton.