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Toto Wolff says he is “absolutely confident” Lewis Hamilton will stay at Mercedes, but “if we cannot demonstrate that we’re able to give him a car in the next couple of years, then he needs to look everywhere”.
There has been a lot of speculation in the F1 media lately, regarding Lewis Hamilton’s status with Mercedes.
Many observers are saying that the Briton could be looking at other potential teams, as Mercedes looks to be in a bad spot again in 2023.
However, when asked if he wants to start contract negotiations with Lewis as soon as possible, team boss Toto Wolff said Lewis’ next Mercedes contract is not a complicated matter.
“Well, I have no idea what is being said in the silly season,” the Austrian said.
“I just know where we are with Lewis and with George and nothing else is relevant, and we’re talking when we want to do it and how.
“We just need to change some terms – the dates basically.”
Asked if he is confident Lewis will stay with the team beyond 2023, Toto said: “I’m absolutely confident.”
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When pressed on whether he worries that Lewis could start talking to other teams, Wolff said:
“I don’t think that Lewis will leave Mercedes.
“He’s at the stage of a career where we trust each other, we have formed the great bond among each other and we have no reason to doubt each other, even though this is a difficult spell.
“But so nice it will be when we come out of this valley of tears, and come back to solid performances.
“As a driver, nevertheless, if he wants to win another championship, he needs to make sure that he has the car.
“And if we cannot demonstrate that we’re able to give him a car in the next couple of years, then he needs to look everywhere.
“I don’t think he’s doing it at that stage, but I will have no grouch if that happens in a year or two,” the Austrian concluded.
