Wolff understands if Hamilton looks 'in a year or two' at other teams

Only one race has been run this season, but already Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes realise that an eighth world title is not in the cards in 2023. During a press conference, team boss Toto Wolff indicated that Mercedes is trailing Red Bull Racing, Ferrari, and also Aston Martin. The thought is therefore not strange that Hamilton may have to opt for another employer if he wants to become champion once more.

While speaking to the media, Wolff was asked whether Hamilton - who has been critical of his team - might not renew his expiring contract after all. Wolff responded firmly: "I don't think Lewis is leaving Mercedes," the Austrian initially said. "I don't think Lewis will leave Mercedes. He is at the stage of the career where we trust each other and we have formed a great bond with each other. We have no reason to doubt each other even if this is a difficult spell."

Out of the valley of tears

Wolff is already looking forward to the time when his Mercedes is again structurally competing at the front and even a title contender. "So nice it will be when we come out of this valley of tears and come back to solid performances. As a driver, nevertheless, if he wants to win another World Championship, he needs to make sure he has the car. If we cannot demonstrate that we are able to give him a car in the next couple of years then he needs to look everywhere."

The contracts of Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz expire at Ferrari after next year. There are (tentative) rumours that Hamilton may one day come out for the Italians. In any case, Hamilton has regularly said he wants to remain active in F1 for years to come, but indicated he wants to drive Mercedes. "I don't think he is doing it at this stage (looking for a new team), but I will have no grudge if that happens in a year or two," Wolff concluded.