MERCEDES are confident that Lewis Hamilton will sign a new contract with the team prior to the new season beginning.
The seven-time world champion sees his deal with the constructors finish at the end of the approaching 2023 season.
Mercedes chief Toto Wolff, 51, remains relaxed about Hamilton putting pen to paper on a new deal.
Wolff said: “As for contract discussions, we have a full year to go.
“We are so aligned – in the last ten years our relationship has grown.”
Hamilton, 38, is taking some time away from the track, going on holidays and talks are set to begin when he returns.
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Wolff continued: “It’s just a matter of him physically being back in Europe, sticking our heads together, wrestling a bit, and then leaving the room with white smoke after a few hours.”
Last season proved a disaster for Hamilton as he suffered continuous issues with his car, such as bouncing along the straights.
Mercedes have confirmed they will launch the new W14 car on February 16.
The 2023 F1 campaign begins with pre-season testing on February 23.
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The first race then takes place in Bahrain on March 5.
Hamilton is used to speaking out about a range of issues but the FIA will no longer allow drivers to use their F1 platform to make statements on political and social problems.
Anyone planning to do so will need permission in advance with Wolff set to hold a discussion with the governing body regarding the new rule.
He said: “Once he [Hamilton] is back, these things will certainly be discussed with a positive mindset.”
Source: Motorsport - thesun.co.uk
