LEWIS HAMILTON has hinted that he didn’t read his big-money contract and now has a “love-hate” relationship with Formula One.
The seven-time world champion penned a two-year deal at Mercedes worth £100million in August.
His improved contract means he will have a place on the grid in both the 2024 and 2025 seasons.
Before signing the deal, there was speculation that Hamilton could move to Ferrari or retire.
But instead the 38-year-old will be racing beyond his 40th birthday.
Hamilton has revealed that he didn’t realise his passion for F1 but maintained he’s got an odd relationship with competing.
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He told outlet Blick: “I have to admit that I underestimated my love for this sport.
“But it’s become a love-hate story. There are days when I would prefer not to get into the cockpit.
“The duels with my team-mate George Russell also give me motivation. You always have to be wide-awake.”
Asked if he is aware of what is in his new Mercedes deal, Hamilton replied: “Of course. But it’s over 200 pages or a damn book. And that takes you days.
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“There are so many details about my promotional activities.
“I’m in a fortunate position with Toto Wolff. He is respected and admired by everyone. It’s easy to negotiate with him and that makes him a great leader.
“This isn’t the first time the two of us have discussed and haggled over details for hours.
“Always under the motto: From Thursday to Sunday I belong exclusively to Formula One.”
Hamilton is third in this year’s standings despite not winning a race ahead of this weekend’s Qatar GP.
Source: Motorsport - thesun.co.uk
