Formula 1 record world champion Lewis Hamilton (38) has extended his contract with Mercedes until the end of 2025. As the Silver Arrows announced before the Italian Grand Prix in Monza, his British team-mate George Russell (25) will stay with Mercedes for another two years.
“We continue to pursue our dreams, we keep fighting no matter how big the challenge, and we will win again. I am grateful to the team that supports me both on and off the track,” said seven-time world champion Hamilton, whose contract has been extended has long been considered a formality. “Our story is not over yet, we are determined to achieve more together and we will not stop until we do.”
Six times world champion
Hamilton began his Formula 1 career in 2007, moving from McLaren to Mercedes in the 2013 season to succeed Michael Schumacher. With the Silver Arrows he became world champion six times. He has won 103 races so far and secured 104 pole positions. The former industry leader Mercedes is currently driving in the shadow of Red Bull and double world champion Max Verstappen.
“Our partnership with Lewis is one of the most successful in the history of the sport. It was always just a formality that we would continue together – and we take every energy in publicly acknowledging this. His qualities as a racing driver are evidenced by his remarkable track record , but over the course of our years together he has become a pillar and leader of our team,” said Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff. “These leadership qualities are vital as we focus on fighting for world championships again.” Wolff also praised Hamilton’s commitment to the fight for diversity and sustainability.
Hamilton has been driving alongside Russell for Mercedes since the 2022 season. The young Brit then replaced the Finn Valtteri Bottas. Russell comes from the Mercedes offspring.
“George is one of the leading figures of his generation. He has repaid the trust we placed in him when we promoted him to the position of driver in 2022,” said Wolff. “His first pole position in Hungary and his first Grand Prix victory in São Paulo were among the outstanding moments of the past season. As a driver, he combines blistering speed with the tenacity of a real fighter.”
