There has been continued speculation regarding Mercedes and Lewis Hamilton in the last few weeks. The subject of the Briton’s contract is one of genuine intrigue, and it is yet to reach a concrete resolution.

Earlier in the week, new F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali had commented on Hamilton’s contract situation. The remarks could have led one to believe at the time that he was hinting at a strong possibility of the seven-time champion’s exit from the sport.

However, renowned F1 journalist Will Buxton offered a differing opinion on what he thought Domenicali meant through his words.

Stefano Domenicali had last spoken to Lewis Hamilton during Christmas

Speaking in a video, Buxton stated, “If you look at it and if you actually listen to the interview as well, Stefano said that he’d last spoken to Lewis over Christmas, which is a month ago.”

“But also in the way that he described it, I don’t think it was so much him saying, ‘I tell you what, I’m not convinced that Lewis Hamilton’s even going to sign for Mercedes in 2021.’”

Naturally, from a top management executive’s perspective, Hamilton staying would be great for the sport’s attractiveness and competitiveness. But then again, the final decision about his future in F1 ultimately rests with the 35-year-old himself.

“It was more him saying, ‘I’m Stefano Domenicali, I’m not Lewis Hamilton. I don’t know if he’s going to sign for Mercedes or not. Why don’t you ask him?’” concluded Buxton.

Hamilton’s contract situation could be resolved prior to winter testing in March

The updated F1 calendar now has the Bahrain Grand Prix race as its season opener. This means that Mercedes and Hamilton now have a little more than two months to negotiate and sign a new contract extension.

Currently, the difference in opinions over valuation and duration seem to be the sticking points in reaching a compromise. Considering both parties have an intention to continue together, the finer details might then be ironed out.

Regardless, Hamilton’s fans will wait with bated breath to find out their icon’s decision. Until then, it would continue to be a case of wait and watch over any possible upcoming developments.

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