Lewis Hamilton signing a new deal is “just a matter of time” says Mercedes Formula 1 team principal Toto Wolff.
Speaking in a pre-season interview, Wolff said he is certain that the four-time world champion will stay with the team for 2019 and beyond.
The Austrian said: “Lewis has become such an important pillar within the team that it is a no-brainer that we continue with each other,”
“The discussions are on-going in a very positive mindset, and it’s just a matter of time when we seal it and put a signature to the document.”
When Hamilton was asked about the new contract deal, the British driver said: “It is quite an easy process for us. We already have something great in place and it is really just about extending it, and enhancing it, and working on what more I can do for them and vice versa.”
Wolff also highlighted the team’s efforts to maintain a competitive driver line-up for the future. Their Junior Driver program is always looking for the next Hamilton, he added.
“We are keeping our eyes open to identify the next Lewis Hamilton – four, five, six, seven years [from now] for when Lewis eventually decides he’s had enough of F1,” he said.
“We are approaching this with a completely open mindset, we are even looking at karting, we are supporting a young Italian boy who is barely 12 years old, and we enjoy doing that. It’s about identifying the talent, no matter where they are in the world.”
Wolff also said the team is working hard through the winter to develop W09 and the car will be fired up soon for its initial testing.
“The mood is good, it’s especially good because today we will be firing up the car for the first time,” Wolff added. “What has been designed is coming together and is coming alive.
“It never goes seamlessly or smoothly because you’re trying to push the boundaries, making the car as light as possible and as quick as possible. We’ve had a good winter, I would say, no real drama – but there is always stress at this time of year.”
