Much buzz has been created about Lewis Hamilton and the details of his supposed new contract with Mercedes. One aspect that caught the eye of many was the fact that there would reportedly be a ‘Verstappen clause’ included in Lewis’s contract. However, new information suggests that is not going to be the case.

For those unfamiliar with the Verstappen clause, it basically grants Hamilton the veto power in choosing his teammate. The idea being floated is that Hamilton would want to block a move for Verstappen, considering the Dutchman is possibly the only driver on track who can steal Hamilton’s thunder.

However, Motorsport reports that Hamilton’s new contract would have no such clause and Hamilton would not get a chance to choose his teammate. The report further states (translated via Google), “The future of the Star is already written. And his name is George Russell and not Max Verstappen.”

Also Read: Lewis Hamilton Reportedly Set to Earn $45 Million as Part of New Mercedes F1 Contract

Russell is the reason behind Mercedes believing Lewis Hamilton getting ‘Verstappen clause’ is pointless

The young Williams driver had filled in for Hamilton at the Sakhir Grand Prix. The 22-year-old stole the show right throughout the weekend; he had the edge over Bottas throughout the race and was a shoo-in to win. Unfortunately, a botched pit stop and a tire puncture meant that Russell only finished in ninth place.

However, during that weekend, Russell showed more than enough to suggest he is the future of the Silver Arrows. Team boss Toto Wolff regards him highly too. The Mercedes academy driver has shown enough talent to suggest he could be a future world champion.

So, since Russell would anyway push Hamilton to the limit, just as Max would, a veto clause would be redundant. Furthermore, the Brackley-based outfit is making a statement of intent, saying that they prioritize the Constructors’ Championship over the Drivers’ one.

As things stand, it looks as though Russell is leading the race for the coveted Mercedes drive in 2022. But until then, Valtteri Bottas will remain in that seat, and the Finn would want to prove a thing or two.

Will there be any more twists and turns to this contract saga? When will Mercedes and Lewis put fans out of their misery and confirm the new contract?

Hopefully, we get the answers to these questions soon.