22/02/2018
NEWS STORY
Watching as his teammate took to the Silverstone track in the car that could see him claim his fifth title, Lewis Hamilton looked suitably impressed.
However, looking beyond this year's title fight, Mercedes is keen to get the Briton's signature on a new contract that could well see further titles.
Hamilton is one of a number of drivers whose contract runs out this year, and while most are likely to search out pastures new, providing Mercedes comes up with the right deal the Briton is likely to stay put.
Of course, a major part of that deal will involve his salary, with current speculation putting the figure at £120m for the next three years.
Speaking to journalists at Silverstone, team boss Toto Wolff said he believes he is weeks away from getting Hamilton to sign on the dotted line.
"We've had very good discussions," said the Austrian, "and are expecting to come up with some news soon.
"The sooner the better," he admitted. "The minute you put the date out, you are going to be remembered about the date and it doesn't make any sense to put ourselves under pressure.
"It is important to cover every angle of the corporation. Lewis has been with the team for six years, we are talking about extending that to a very long time."
Asked when news of the new contract might be expected, he said: "A couple of weeks would be a realistic target. Maybe a few weeks."
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