Lewis Hamilton has hinted that a new McLaren deal isn’t far off, but it would come with some changes, most of all, less PR work in the build-up to races.
It’s something that isn’t so obvious to the fans at home, but Formula 1 drivers, particularly top drivers, spend several days prior to a race attending events organised by sponsors.
Hamilton says that has to change, when, not if, he re-signs with McLaren.
“When I re-sign the contract with McLaren they are going to be shocked at how many days they are not going to be able to make me do,” he is quoted as saying by Reuters.
“I will be doing a lot less work. I definitely won’t be doing the whole period of time before the Silverstone grand prix, that’s for sure. I will have at least five days to prepare in the future.
“I have just come from the last race and I have had a day or two off and I am certain if you look down the paddock there won’t be many other drivers that have done what I have been doing over the last two weeks,” added Hamilton.
The 26-year-old admitted he was looking forward to the four-week break which takes place after the Hungarian GP.
His father, Anthony, urged his son to stick with McLaren as they’re family having given Hamilton is big break in motorsport.
“My advice right now is for Lewis to stay at McLaren,” he told BBC Radio. “He’s in love with them, they’re in love with him, they’re going through a little bit of turmoil as you do in any relationship. But I believe it is going to be a happy marriage if he stays.
“I’m a great believer if you want to be the best then you have to work within the team. It’s like a family isn’t it,” concluded Hamilton Snr.
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