Hamilton commits F1 future to Mercedes

Lewis Hamilton has committed his F1 future to Mercedes by signing a new deal with the Brackley-based outfit.

The seven-time F1 World Champion will continue with the team that has been his home since joining in 2013 for the next two years.

Since making the move from McLaren, Hamilton has added six titles to his maiden triumph in 2008 - to tie Michael Schumacher's record of seven - during a dominant eight-year period that saw Mercedes clinch each available championship excluding the 2021 Drivers' crown.

But Mercedes has taken a step behind Red Bull since the introduction of new technical regulations, only making a stride forward with an upgrade package that changed the W14s design concept at the Monaco Grand Prix.

The struggles led to extensive speculation regarding Hamilton's future, with Ferrari at one stage tipped to land his signature despite consistent claims from the Briton that he envisioned a contract with Mercedes 'for life', as well as racing well into his 40s.

Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff was also forthright in his beliefs that any negotiations would be straightforward, only adding fuel to the fire of speculation as the process was drawn out.

In a statement confirming the new deal, Hamilton said: “We dream every day of being the best and we have dedicated the past decade together to achieving that goal.

"Being at the top does not happen overnight or over a short period of time, it takes commitment, hard work and dedication and it’s been an honour to earn our way into the history books with this incredible team.

"We have never been hungrier to win. We have learnt from every success but also every setback.

"We continue to chase our dreams, we continue to fight no matter the challenge and we will win again. I’m grateful to the team who have supported me both on and off the track.

"Our story isn’t finished, we are determined to achieve more together and we won’t stop until we do."

Russell continues

George Russell has also extended his stay with the Silver Arrows until at least the end of 2025.

The Briton has impressed since joining from Williams, outscoring Hamilton in their first year together and claiming his maiden pole position and victory in Hungary and Brazil last year.

“I have grown up with this team ever since joining as part of the Junior programme back in 2017," he said.

"It’s my home and it feels fantastic to extend our special relationship through 2025.

“After stepping up to the Mercedes race seat last year, I wanted to reward the trust and belief that Toto and the rest of the team placed in me.

"Taking my first pole position and race win last year was an unforgettable feeling.

"More importantly though, it’s been great to work with everybody at Brackley and Brixworth to make progress with our car and push forward our development.

"Their loyalty, vision and hard work is inspiring.

“We have made some significant steps over the last 18 months and are only getting stronger as a team. I’m excited to help continue to build on that momentum as we progress into 2024 and 2025 as we continue to focus on returning to the very front of the pack.”