Hamilton warns rivals with new deal: "We still have a lot to achieve"
On Saturday morning, Mercedes confirmed that Lewis Hamilton will stay at the German team until at least 2023. The seven-time World Champion will stay at the team for two more years, a place where he has been since 2013. Hamilton reports he is excited to keep working with the team.
Hamilton, who will turn 37 in January, has so far won 77 races and secured 74 pole positions with Mercedes. It has been one of the most successful partnerships in the history of Formula 1. Speaking after announcing the contract, Hamilton sent a warning to his rivals.
"It is hard to believe it's been nearly nine years working with this incredible team and I'm excited we're going to continue our partnership for two more years. We've accomplished so much together but we still have a lot to achieve, both on and off the track," Hamilton said in the press release.
Over the last 18 months, Hamilton has played a pivotal role in raising issues surrounding diversity and inclusivity not only within Formula 1 but around the world. A project which he has led within the sport and looks to achieve more in the coming years.
"I'm incredibly proud and grateful of how Mercedes has supported me in my drive to improve diversity and equality in our sport. They have held themselves accountable and made important strides in creating a more diverse team and inclusive environment. Thank you to all the dedicated and talented individuals at Mercedes whose hard work makes it all possible and the Board for their continued trust in me," Hamilton added.
2022 Rule and regulation changes
Next season, Formula 1 will be reprinting the rule and regulation book. Radical changes are being made to the cars and this news means that Hamilton will compete with these cars.
"We're entering a new era of car which will be challenging and exciting and I can't wait to see what else we can achieve together," he concluded.