Hamilton-Mercedes deal includes much more: 'They've only dealt with 2021 now'

Lewis Hamilton signed his contract with Mercedes for 2021 on Monday afternoon. The big news was that it will only be valid for one year. At least, one year on the track. Further cooperation that is included in the contract ensures a longer term commitment between the two parties.

Hamilton contract covers more than one year on track

As well as agreeing to race for Mercedes for another year, the German stable and the seven-time world champion have also agreed to launch an initiative together, with Hamilton at the helm, to promote diversity in motorsport. In doing so they are making a long-term commitment and Hamilton retains the choice to shift his focus away from the track next year.

This is how Sky Sports journalist Craig Slater explains it. In a Sky Sports F1 interview, the journalist says: "As far as Hamilton and Mercedes are concerned, they have now dealt with 2021. This by no means entail that they will stop working together in 2022. Many people are surprised that the contract is only valid for one year, but don't write Lewis off yet for the next epoque in F1."

Extra chance for Russell in 2022?

Whether Hamilton can be seen on track in 2022 or not, collaboration with Mercedes is certainly set for the future. Another salient detail about the new deal is that the contracts of Hamilton, Valtteri Bottas and George Russell are expiring. This leaves Mercedes with a free choice for next year.

Slater: "That is interesting, but as long as they have the same fast car as the past few seasons it doesn't look like they are going to have trouble recruiting the right drivers.  Max Verstappen is tied up with Red Bull until 2023, so if you look at it you could say Russell might have an extra opportunity of getting into that Mercedes seat in 2022."