Doornbos expects one-year deal Hamilton: 'In 2022 Max might be available'

It was announced this week that INEOS is taking over a third of the shares of the Mercedes Formula 1 team. This is a considerable investment which Robert Doornbos believes will end up in Lewis Hamilton's wallet.

"INEOS pays top billing to enter a Formula 1 team and that's the perfect excuse for Mercedes. Daimler's big boss was not in favour of paying Hamilton so much extra. Now they have the money to pay Lewis", says Doornbos in Formula 1 Café at Ziggo Sport.

Hamilton not the same length of contract as Wolff

The only question is how long Hamilton will then commit to the team. Toto Wolff has extended his contract for three years this week and it is known that he and Hamilton are a close-knit duo. However, Doornbos doesn't think Hamilton will sign up for so many years.

"I think it will be a one-year deal for Lewis, if it is announced", and he says there are several reasons for that. "You want to keep the options open for 2022. If Max has one bad year with Red Bull, he will be available on the market. If Lewis takes an eighth title next year, his motivation might be a bit less".