Mercedes are set to extend George Russell’s contract and Lewis Hamilton says a new deal has almost been finalised.
Hamilton and Russell have enjoyed a good relationship in Formula 1 – despite coming together in qualifying for the Spanish Grand Prix.
Russell‘s contract expired at the end of 2024 but Mercedes are expected to trigger an additional 12-month option that will see him stay until at least 2025.
Both drivers managed to largely maximise results in the 2022 car and this year’s W14, although Hamilton went winless for the first time in an F1 campaign.
Russell joined Mercedes at the end of 2021, after a promising debut for the team in the 2020 Sakhir GP.
Following his promotion from Williams, the 25-year-old has collected 340 points, taken a maiden F1 pole position in Hungary, and his maiden victory in Brazil – finishing fourth in the 2022 standings ahead of his experienced teammate.
At the Spanish GP he collected his first podium of the season and continues to develop as a driver, looking likely to inherit the role of team leader once Hamilton eventually departs.
Hamilton’s relationship with Mercedes needs no introduction. The Brit has claimed six world championships, 81 wins and 78 pole positions at Mercedes and it seems the chance to extend the records with the German constructor will continue.
There have been rumours since the end of 2021 that Hamilton might be set to leave Mercedes, or F1 altogether but it seems as though both driver and team are happy to continue, with the announcement being imminent.
“I want to keep going for as long as I can,” Hamilton said to select members of the media, including Total-Motorsport.com.
“I want to be where he [Max Verstappen] is, or racing him at least, and I am super-focused on getting to that point.
“I have not signed anything yet, but I am meeting with Toto so hopefully we can get something done.”
Where is the next F1 2023 race?
With the F1 circus finished in Spain, the next race is the 2023 Canadian Grand Prix which will be held at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in Montreal over the weekend of June 16-18.
