Lewis Hamilton is reportedly in complete control of his Ferrari future, with a contract clause in the Briton's deal having been discovered.
According to F1-Insider, Italian newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport has discovered that Hamilton's additional third year in his contract is up to the 40-year-old, not Ferrari.
The seven-time world champion is believed to have a deal that runs until the end of 2026, with an option for a third year.
That third year option is reported by Gazzetta dello Sport as being entirely up to the driver, rather than the Maranello-based outfit.
It means that Ferrari has little control over its driver pairing for the short-term future, due to Hamilton having the power over whether he races for the Italian squad in 2027.
The reason for this style of deal is reportedly due to the commercial benefits that Hamilton brings to Ferrari, with the 105-time race winner increasing global attention for the manufacturer.
The Italian publication is reported to have said 'Ferrari will go with him no matter what'. Hamilton has endured a challenging start to life with the outfit, which hit a new low in Hungary.
After being eliminated in Q2 at his beloved Hungaroring, Hamilton described himself as "useless" and insisted that Ferrari needed to sign a new driver.
He finds himself without a podium from the opening 14 rounds, whilst team-mate Charles Leclerc has secured five rostrums already this year.
Also interesting:
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