For at least the next two years, Mercedes will continue to field drivers Lewis Hamilton and George Russell.
Hamilton has agreed to a new contract that will keep him with the team for an additional 13 years and keep him competing in Formula One far into the age of 40.
Russell, who started working for Mercedes in 2022, has also agreed to a two-year contract.
The decision backs both Hamilton and team owner Toto Wolff’s claims that a new contract for the seven-time champion will come this year.
Hamilton may now resume his pursuit of a record-tying ninth world drivers’ championship, which he and his team feel was taken from him at the contentious 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Because former FIA race director Michael Masi operated a late-race safety car period against the regulations, Hamilton lost to Max Verstappen of Red Bull.
Since then, Red Bull has dominated the sport, and Mercedes has lost its ability to compete.
Leclerc discusses his desire to stay in Formula One, his hardships, and his inspiration in “Elsewhere in F1”
We dream of being the best every day, and we have committed the last decade together to attaining that goal, added Hamilton, who has repeatedly stated that he intends to remain in a relationship with Mercedes long after he retires from the driving seat.
It takes effort, hard work, and dedication to reach the top. It has been an honor to accomplish so with this wonderful team. Being at the top does not happen over night or in a short amount of time.
“Our will to win is greater than ever. We have gained knowledge from both successes and failures.
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“We keep going after our goals, we keep fighting through difficulties, and we’ll keep winning. I’m appreciative of the team’s assistance, both on and off the track. Our narrative isn’t over yet; we’re committed to work together to accomplish more, and we won’t give up until we do.
Russell, 25, continued, “Since joining as a member of the junior program back in 2017, I have grown up with this team. It feels wonderful to continue our unique relationship through 2025 because it is my home.
“I wanted to show my appreciation for Toto and the rest of the team’s confidence in me after accepting the Mercedes race seat last year.
“Winning my first race and earning my first pole position last year was an incredible feeling.
But more importantly, it’s been terrific working with everyone at the Brackley chassis facility and the Brixworth engine base to further our development and make progress with our car. Their dedication, drive, and perseverance are motivating.
“Over the past 18 months, we have taken some important steps and have only grown as a team.
I’m eager to contribute to maintaining this momentum as we move into 2024 and 2025 and keep our attention on getting back to the very top of the pack.
