Seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton has signed a new three-year contract with Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team, keeping him at the team until the end of the 2025 season.
The 37-year-old British driver had been in talks with Mercedes since the end of the 2022 season, and his new deal is reportedly worth a staggering "$120 million per year".
Hamilton's decision to stay with Mercedes is a major boost for the team, who have been struggling to keep up with Red Bull since the start of the 2022 season. The new contract will also give Hamilton a chance to equal Michael Schumacher's record of ""seven world championships".
・Key details of the contract:
* The contract is for three years, from 2023 to 2025.
* The contract is worth a reported $120 million per year, making it the biggest in Formula 1 history.
* The contract includes a clause that allows Hamilton to leave Mercedes at the end of 2025 if he chooses to do so.
・Reactions to the news:
* Toto Wolff, Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team principal: "We are delighted to have Lewis signed up for the next three seasons. He is the greatest driver of all time, and he is at the peak of his powers. We are confident that we can continue to win together."
* Max Verstappen, Red Bull driver: "I'm disappointed that Lewis has decided to stay with Mercedes. I was hoping that he would come to Red Bull and challenge me for the championship. But I respect his decision and I wish him all the best."
・F1 fans: "This is great news for Formula 1! Hamilton is a global superstar, and his presence in the sport is a major factor in its popularity. I'm looking forward to seeing him race for Mercedes for the next three years."
・The impact of Hamilton's new contract:
Hamilton's new contract is a major boost for Formula 1. It is a sign that the sport is still attracting the world's best drivers, and it will help to maintain its popularity.
The contract also gives Mercedes a major advantage in the championship fight. With Hamilton at the wheel, they will be the favorites to win the championship in 2023, 2024, and 2025.
Hamilton's decision to stay with Mercedes is also a major blow to Red Bull. Verstappen is under contract with Red Bull until the end of 2028, but there have been rumors that he could leave the team if they do not win the championship this year.
With Hamilton staying put, Red Bull will need to find another driver who can challenge him for the championship. This could be a difficult task, as there are few drivers who are as good as Hamilton.
・Conclusion:
Hamilton's new contract is a major coup for Mercedes, and it is a sign that the team is still committed to winning the Formula 1 championship. The contract will also give Hamilton a chance to equal Michael Schumacher's record of seven world championships.
With Hamilton signed on for the next three years, Formula 1 fans can look forward to many more years of exciting racing.