While Lewis Hamilton’s short-term goals revolve around his eighth world championship, there has been some doubt sown in recent months about his future with Mercedes. Having only signed a one-year deal despite a long negotiation saga, some people believe that this could be his last year with the Silver Arrows. Not that any other destination would be as appealing, but perhaps Hamilton could land up at McLaren, where it all began, for a swansong.

However, as far as the team’s CEO Zak Brown is concerned, that won’t be happening anytime soon.

Brown said that he is more than happy with his current lineup. But even if given a choice, Brown wouldn’t want to bring Lewis back simply because it wouldn’t be a long-term project, and it wouldn’t be in the best interests of either party.

He said, “Where we are today, no, because we are really happy with Daniel and Lando and have them under long-term contracts. If I had an opening, would I put Lewis in the car? Of course, but we are trying to build for the future, hence this kind of youth-and-experience combination.”

Timing not right for McLaren and Lewis Hamilton reunion claims Brown

The American added, “You feel if you brought Lewis back now it would be for a one or two-year journey and we know we are not ready to compete for championships, so we need to set up a driver line-up that gets us to that position and that when we reach it they are ready.

“Daniel is ready now, of course. I don’t think the timing is right for Lewis.”

For now, Brown will be content with focusing on the big season at hand. Under his leadership, the Woking-based outfit have seen a revival in recent years. Having achieved a third-place finish last season, Zak would be wanting more of the same from his team.

They certainly have a strong driver combo that is expected to deliver on track and off it. Moreover, the drivers have been impressed with the car as well as with the team engineers, so morale also doesn’t seem a concern.

Therefore, early signs suggest a positive start is in sight. Nevertheless, they can scarcely afford to get comfortable in a super competitive mid-field.

Will they end the opening race with bragging rights? We shall soon find out.

Also Read: F1 Champ Lewis Hamilton ‘a Little Bit Fatigued’ – Brundle