Stefano Domenicali, the CEO of Formula 1, has urged Mercedes to bring Lewis Hamilton back to winning ways as the seven-time World Champion’s new contract remains unsigned.
Hamilton, who equaled Michael Schumacher’s record of seven titles in 2020 and surpassed 100 pole positions and grand prix victories, is the most successful driver in F1 history. However, Mercedes has been struggling under the current regulations, and Hamilton has not secured a victory since the penultimate race of 2021, narrowly missing out on his eighth World Championship in controversial circumstances.
With Hamilton’s contract set to expire at the end of this season, there were brief rumors linking him to Ferrari in May. However, he has recently expressed his intention to remain with Mercedes, the team he joined from McLaren a decade ago, for the 2024 season and beyond.
While negotiations were expected to be finalized soon after the Canadian Grand Prix, Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff revealed at the Austrian Grand Prix that some details still need to be ironed out, even though the terms of the deal have been agreed upon.
Wolff clarified that the announcement of Hamilton’s contract extension will not be timed to coincide with his home race at Silverstone this weekend.
Speaking alongside Domenicali after a visit to 10 Downing Street, Wolff praised Hamilton’s importance to the sport and his impact beyond racing, including his advocacy for diversity and sustainability.
When asked if he wants to see Hamilton sign with Mercedes for a few more years, Domenicali had a pointed message for Mercedes, emphasizing the need for a competitive car.
While acknowledging Hamilton’s influence and multifaceted personality, Domenicali stated, “For the short term, I would say, Toto: make sure that he’s running with a good F1 car.”
Wolff gladly accepted the challenge, responding, “We owe him an eighth Championship.”
As negotiations continue between Hamilton and Mercedes, it remains to be seen when the contract extension will be officially announced.
