Lewis Hamilton recently signed a new contract extension with Mercedes. The driver left everyone chewing on their nails as every Hamilton fan anticipated the announcement of his new contract. But what was due to be officiated at the Dutch Grand Prix was announced right before the weekend at Monza. The Mercedes star has signed his agreement to become the grid’s highest-paid driver as of 2023.
Lewis Hamilton’s extension was done alongside George Russell‘s contract extension as they both confirmed being part of their AMG Petronas team until 2025. However, what was meant to be a five-year deal with his Silver Arrows team was finalized at two years. The Brit asked to stay on the team for five more years which was declined. Lewis Hamilton has given almost 10 years of his career to the team. Needless to say, the team is a family to him.
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All of Hamilton’s biggest achievements in the sport have come with Mercedes. From achieving 103 wins to becoming a seven-time champion of the world, Mercedes and Hamilton have been together through it hand in hand.
It was also when the driver was “robbed” from the 2021 championship that Mercedes stuck by him as they motivated him to push on. The Silver Arrows team has been an integral part of the Brit’s career which was why he turned down the Ferrari seat at the start of the season.
Lewis Hamilton becomes the highest-paid driver on the grid
Lewis Hamilton was getting paid an estimated $45 million with his Mercedes contract before. This made him the second highest-paid driver on the grid. However, according to TalkSport, with his new contract extension, the Brit will be taking home $60 million per year, making him the highest paid driver on the grid.
The contract revolved around Hamilton wanting a raise which strikes up his salary making him the highest-paid driver on the grid. Hamilton wanted the deal for five years, nonetheless, he agreed to two years eventually.
With the confirmation of his stay, the driver will be fighting for his 8th title. Mercedes stands second in the Constructors Championship, however, they are way behind when it comes to winning. The team has only earned points thanks to Hamilton’s podium finishes.
But with his contract extension approved, he has two more years with the team to win another title. Max Verstappen is already closing in on his third championship win, Hamilton can only fight back next season.
Martin Brundle breaks down Lewis Hamilton’s new Mercedes contract 📝 pic.twitter.com/8Os9dP4PX5
— Sky Sports F1 (@SkySportsF1) August 31, 2023
However, with Lewis Hamilton and George Russell on the grid, Mercedes are optimistic for the future. Both the drivers have shown promise in their performances. Toto Wolff, the team boss can also be seen glowing brightly with both his drivers signed to be with him. And if he was not any more confident in Silver Arrows, he is now with his newfound hope.
