Lewis Hamilton has hinted again that he sees his future with McLaren. Just prior to the new season, the 2008 world champion indicated he would like to renew his deal with the Woking based team in the early phase of this year. Hamilton’s current contract runs out at the end of 2012.
Asked by British publications if he is being persuaded by his boss Martin Whitmarsh to stay, the 27-year-old answered: “I don’t need persuading.
“The team are doing fantastic. I could not be happier in the team.”
Also asked if it would be hard for him to leave the team he has spent his entire career with, Hamilton admitted: “Yeah. I don’t feel like walking away.”
The Briton had a tumultuous 2011 season, but so far in 2012 he has appeared happy as he raced onto the podium at the end of every grand prix.
“Everything is better this year,” said Hamilton. “The team is better. The car is better. I am a lot better. I have got my dad here (in China) and that is not fake; we have a real, real good bond now. Things are great and that’s reflected in my performances.”
Jenson Button, who already has a deal in place for 2013 and beyond, indicated he would like Hamilton to remain his teammate.
“It’s good to have competition, it drives the team forward,” said the 2009 world champion.
As for when the new deal might be done, Hamilton said the timeframe for talks is open “so long as it is before next year”.
Source:GMM
