Hamilton 'held talks' with Red Bull about partnering Verstappen

Lewis Hamilton reportedly "held talks" with Red Bull before extending his stay at Mercedes.

Rumours over whether Hamilton would extend his contract with Mercedes were rife, after several delays to his current contract.

Now it has emerged that a representative of the seven-time World Champion contacted Red Bull over the possibility of his partnering championship rival Max Verstappen, according to Team Principal Christian Horner.

"We have had several conversations over the years about Lewis joining," Horner told the Daily Mail.

"They have reached out a few times. Most recently, earlier in the year, there was an inquiry about whether there would be any interest."

Hamilton subsequently announced a new deal at this year's Italian Grand Prix to remain at the team until 2025 along with teammate George Russell.

Hamilton met Elkann to discuss Ferrari move

Hamilton has previously confirmed that he had "casual talks" with Ferrari over a move to the Italian team, but said that it "never felt right" to move to Italy.

"He met John Elkann (Ferrari chairman), too. I think there were serious talks," said Horner.

"It was around Monaco (in May). There were definitely conversations, perhaps with Vasseur, too. But certainly with Elkann.

"But I can't see Max and Lewis working out together. The dynamic wouldn't be right. We are 100 per cent happy with what we have."