Wants To Keep Hamilton For A Long Time, Mercedes Boss: He Has Become A Friend

Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton. (Photo: Twitter @MercedesAMGF1)

JAKARTA - Lewis Hamilton's future at the Mercedes GP has yet to come to light. However, the German team is believed to continue to defend the holder of the seven Formula 1 world titles.

This is indicated by the statement of the Mercedes GP boss, Toto Wolf. He said his party wanted to keep Hamilton as their main driver for Formula 1 in the coming seasons, not just stopping in 2023.

Currently, Hamilton is in the last year of his contract with Silver Arrow. The management of the F1 team is considering working together for a longer time.

Wolff assessed that Hamilton was an important pillar for the British-based racing team.

"I really hope so (Hamilton will continue at Mercedes). I did everything I could to make him stay in this team," Wolff said, as quoted by Antara.

Furthermore, he admitted that he did not need to persuade the 38-year-old racer to stay with the team. The reason is, Hamilton knows very well the strengths and weaknesses of Mercedes.

"I don't think we need to persuade him. He knows about all the team's advantages, and even though we struggled with cars this year, and last year, he will be an important part of the team's revival," Wolff said.

He continued, he and Hamilton have been working together for a decade. He also called Hamilton more than just a rider for him, but also a good friend.

"Lewis has been a friend, and for years we have gone through very good difficult times and moments. We celebrate many championships and we discuss among ourselves, which is not always easy," said Wolff.

"Not only being friends, he is also a colleague, he is also the best rider in the world and I am very proud to be a part of his career," he added.