Wolff didn't wait to announce contract: 'Asked Bottas for permission'

On Saturday morning, Mercedes announced that they will stay with Lewis Hamilton for the next two years. A remarkable date to announce the news, in the middle of the race weekend. Often these announcements are made during the week, but according to Toto Wolff, Mercedes didn't have to wait for that

"We signed it last night and we thought to ourselves, 'Why not announce it right away'. Formula 1 is an environment where it is difficult to keep things secret and we wanted to remain proactive by bringing it out," explained Wolff in conversation with Ziggo Sport.

'Best driver at the best team'

"We asked Valtteri if he was okay with us bringing it out right away and he said he didn't care at all. That's why we announced it today". According to the Mercedes team boss, it makes sense for Hamilton to re-sign with his team now.

"It is now the best driver and the best car. He has seven world titles and almost a hundred wins. I think he is an important face in this organisation. Obviously, it's not always easy. We also see that this year is a lot harder than the years before. Next year we will have new regulations and he knows what our plans are for next year," concludes Wolff.