Lewis Hamilton secured a sensational P2 in the 2023 Spanish GP. The Briton overcame a shaky start after being nudged by McLaren’s Lando Norris. However, the Briton then picked up his pace to secure his second podium of the season.
His former teammate Nico Rosberg was impressed with the 7x champion’s drive. The German told Mercedes boss Toto Wolff that it was high time Hamilton was handed a new contract.
Hamilton’s $49,000,000 contract with the Silver Arrows ends after the 2023 season is wrapped up. The driver has previously claimed that he and Mercedes have yet to finalize his extension. Maybe Toto Wolff would hasten the process after today!
Nico Rosberg asks Toto Wolff about Lewis Hamilton’s contract situation
Lewis Hamilton and George Russell’s podium took Mercedes to P2 in the Constructor’s standings, overtaking Aston Martin. And Nico Rosberg claimed the Briton’s performance in Spain was enough to warrant a contract extension.
He asked Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff after the race, “When are you going to sign Lewis Hamilton? What’s happening there? I mean he is driving awesome so what are you waiting for?”
“And when are you signing Lewis?” 💭
Nico doesn’t mess around asking questions 😅 pic.twitter.com/b9PFnUy5NO
— Sky Sports F1 (@SkySportsF1) June 4, 2023
The Austrian answered, “I think we just need to take some time and sit over coffee. That’s going to take half an hour.” Wolff claims it was positive to see the new upgrades working their magic after a dismal 2023 start.
It’s understood that Hamilton and Mercedes will be signing an extension soon. The 7x champion has openly stated that he will be racing for a few more seasons, and when he wishes to retire, it will be with Mercedes.
Wolff admits he feels uncomfortable discussing salary with Lewis Hamilton
A few weeks back, there were rumors that Ferrari offered Lewis Hamilton a $50,000,000 offer. However, Toto Wolff claims he never fell for the false news claiming the Briton was tempted to move to Italy.
Wolff remains confident that Hamilton will sign an extension with Mercedes by the year-end. However, the negotiation still has a million-dollar hurdle, discussing the driver’s pay.
Wolff told ESPN that he felt awkward during the discussion. He confessed, “It’s extremely uncomfortable. Every three years we have this situation. It’s like negotiating financial terms with your best friend, your close friend.”
Wolff added, “I want the best for him, but in the position I’m in, I have to think about what’s best for the team. This might be the first time in 10 or 11 years that we’re together and our goals have diverged.”
Hamilton and Mercedes will be confirming the news during the summer break. The Briton is still focused on winning his 8th title with Mercedes and had never considered leaving the Silver Arrows despite their struggles.
