Hamilton sheds new light on F1 contract 'haggling' with Wolff 

The seven-time world champion ended months of speculation about his F1 future by agreeing a new two-year contract extension with Mercedes in a deal that was announced at the end of August. 

Hamilton and Mercedes team principal Wolff had reiterated on several occasions that a new contract would be signed, with both inferring that only small details needed to be finalised as negotiations appeared to drag on.

Speaking to Swiss outlet Blick, Hamilton opened up about the nature of his back-and-forth ‘haggling’ with Wolff. 

“This isn't the first time the two of us have discussed and haggled over details for hours,” he said. 

“Always under the motto: From Thursday to Sunday I belong exclusively to Formula 1.”

Hamilton continued: “There are so many details about my promotional activities. 

“I'm in a fortunate position with Toto. He is respected and admired by everyone. It's easy to negotiate with him. And that makes him a great leader.”

Asked if he still reads his contracts, Hamilton said: “Of course I want to know exactly what's in there. But now it's over 200 pages or a damn book. And that takes you days!”

The 38-year-old’s new deal will extend his period with Mercedes to 13 years and keep him in F1 well past his 40th birthday. 

Hamilton says he “underestimated” his passion for F1 when he previously suggested he would not continue racing beyond 40, though he admitted it has become a “love-hate story”. 

“I have to admit that I underestimated my love for this sport,” he said. “But it's become a love-hate story. There are days when I would prefer not to get into the cockpit.

Hamilton added: “The duels with my teammate George also give me motivation. You always have to be wide-awake.”