Mercedes Chief Toto Wolff Acknowledges the Possibility of Lewis Hamilton’s Departure from the Team
Mercedes chief, Toto Wolff, has acknowledged the possibility of Lewis Hamilton’s departure from the team after his current contract, worth £40m per year, expires at the end of this year’s Formula One season. In an interview with BBC Sport, Wolff said that he wouldn’t put a deadline on discussions with Hamilton and that both the team and the driver should “explore” their options.
Hamilton’s Negotiations with Mercedes
Hamilton’s contract negotiations with Mercedes have been ongoing since the end of last season, but the two parties have yet to reach an agreement. The seven-time world champion has been linked with a move to other teams, including Red Bull and Ferrari, in recent weeks, and Wolff previously said the team needed to know Hamilton’s intentions by February to make plans for the 2022 season.
The Possibility of Hamilton’s Departure
In the interview, Wolff admitted that Hamilton’s departure would be a “big loss” for the team but said they had to be ready for every scenario. He added that the team has a contingency plan in place if Hamilton decides to leave, but refused to reveal any details.
Wolff also acknowledged that Hamilton’s departure would be a big challenge for the team, particularly the search for his replacement. The team has yet to announce who will partner with Hamilton, assuming he stays, for the 2022 season.
Hamilton’s Legacy at Mercedes
Hamilton joined Mercedes in 2013 and has since won seven world championships, making him one of the most successful F1 drivers of all time. He has formed a strong partnership with Wolff over the years, and the two have won multiple championships together.
Hamilton has been an integral part of Mercedes’ dominance in recent years, and his departure would mark the end of an era for the team. However, Wolff has said that the team is “preparing for any eventuality,” and will continue to strive for “long-term success” regardless of Hamilton’s decision.
Summary:
Mercedes chief, Toto Wolff, has acknowledged the possibility of Lewis Hamilton’s departure from the team after his current contract expires at the end of the year. The negotiations between Hamilton and Mercedes have been ongoing for several months, and both parties have yet to reach an agreement. Wolff has said that the team is preparing for any scenario and has a contingency plan in place if Hamilton decides to leave. Leaving Mercedes would mark the end of an era for the team, but they remain focused on long-term success. #LewisHamilton #TotoWolff #Mercedes #F1 #FormulaOne #ContractNegotiations #SPORT