Hamilton's signature due before Christmas: "Hopefully get it tied up before"
F1 News
The 2020 season was another successful year for Mercedes and Lewis Hamilton. However, the contract extensions between Mercedes and Hamilton have not yet been signed. This must be completed before the end of the year.
Hamilton's contract only valid for one month
At the end of the current month, the contract of the seven-time World Champion expires. While there is no doubt that there is room for the Brit, it seems remarkable for someone of Hamilton's talent and form to not have a contract in 2021 yet. The delay is partly due to the specific requirements.
The Independent reports that Hamilton's new is to be announced after the Abu Dhabi race: "I plan to be here next year, and I ought to be here next year. As a team, we have more to do together - more to achieve both in and outside of the sport. I hope we can begin discussions this week and then hopefully get it tied up before Christmas."
Delay due to coronavirus
Mercedes' initial plan was to enter negotiations with Hamilton after winning the championships. Things turned out differently so negotiations are starting late.
Team boss Toto Wolff says: “It is going to happen. There is no reason it is not going to happen. We always said we would do it after he won the title and then the virus delayed us for another 10 days, two weeks. Now we need to sit down and get it done."