Hamilton and a new contract with Mercedes? He will reportedly have the right to choose his teammate

Speculation about Lewis Hamilton’s future seems to be coming to an end. As much as many non-Mercedes fans want to see his end in Formula 1, it probably won’t happen. His contract is said to have been negotiated, all that’s missing is a signature.

Lewis Hamilton and his (non)continuation in Formula One has been a big topic in recent weeks. It was unknown whether he would sign a new contract with Mercedes, or if Mercedes would meet his demands.

The already legendary driver was supposed to want 50 million euros a year in his contract, which was the main reason why the signing still didn’t happen. According to various speculations, Mercedes was also supposed to think about finding another driver.

But according to the well-informed F1-Insider, the deal is already on the table and only a signature is said to be missing. Some details of the contract have also been made public. It should be a one-year deal with an option for two more seasons.

Hamilton will not get 50 million, he will get 40 million, which is more or less the amount he has been getting so far. But he will be compensated for not getting a pay rise in other ways.

He will be given two advertising spaces on his overalls and helmet, which the seven-time champion can negotiate himself. However, the spicy detail is different. Hamilton would have veto power over the selection of his teammate from 2022.

But why would he want such a thing? There is speculation about Max Verstappen’s possible defection from Red Bull to Mercedes, however the Dutchman is contractually committed to Red Bull until 2023.

Verstappen is undoubtedly one of F1’s best drivers, so Mercedes would certainly have no reason not to want him. However, Hamilton doesn’t want him in his stable, so a veto would definitely come in handy in this regard.

But this is not official information yet. The official announcement should be made next week.

Source: F1-Insider