Although the F1 season is drawing to a close, Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes have already won both titles on offer this year. However, there was still a chance for the Brit to create more new records and history.
Unfortunately, having tested positive for coronavirus, he will now have to go through a period of isolation. This resulted in George Russell being called up to replace Hamilton in the Mercedes W11 for the Sakhir GP weekend.
However, the subject of Hamilton’s contract is something that has been discussed more often than not this season. However, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has said that no talks about the same will begin until Hamilton makes a full recovery.
Lewis Hamilton being COVID negative the priority, says Wolff
Speaking in an interview, Wolff stated: “The timeline is being delayed until he recovers.
“We know we have to do it – very well aware of the two of us – but the priority now is for him to recover and be [Covid] negative. Then we will meet or Zoom to put the pen on the paper. “
Russell is considered by many as one of the options to succeed Hamilton when he finally retires from the sport. Wolff insists the 22-year-old Briton’s performances will not influence his decision to extend Hamilton’s contract.
“I have a lot of respect for who he is and how he drives, his records and what happens this weekend or next will not influence our conversations.” Wolff concluded.
The seven-time world champion could look to close a deal before the year is out
The Hamilton-Mercedes combination is something that no F1 fan will have the slightest doubt will continue for the near future, at the very least. Both parties have already stated their intention to sign the extension and put an end to the speculation.
As such, Hamilton’s focus will be on getting better and recovering from the virus. After that, his fans and supporters would expect the 35-year-old to extend his contract to continue breaking more F1 records.
