Wolff addresses Hamilton Russell contract danger

Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff has insisted there is no danger presented to the Silver Arrows by securing Lewis Hamilton and George Russell to contracts of the same length.

Seven-time F1 champion Hamilton's future was confirmed ahead of the Italian Grand Prix weekend after months of speculation that included a potential move to Ferrari, if reports in Italy were to be believed.

But the continuation of what is statistically the most successful team-driver partnership in F1 history was confirmed with Hamilton signed through to the end of 2025 at least.

"We knew we had an agreement, not only emotionally but also on paper, many weeks ago," Wolff told Sky Sports F1.

"But you get lawyers on the case and they find stuff."

No concerns

Russell was confirmed to be staying with Mercedes until at least the end of 2025 in the same announcement as Hamilton's extension, which means both contracts will run out at the same time.

Asked if this could be a cause for concern should both drivers opt to leave at the same time, Wolff insisted: "No, we have different structures of contracts, also because George has been with us since he was a junior.

"But I believe in the fact that if it is beneficial for both parties... you need to make a quick car and you need a quick driver, and I do it like a very famous football coach once told me: 'if a good player wants to go elsewhere, don't stop him going elsewhere'.

"When someone wants to move, either the team or the driver, then you have just got to move."