22 May 2023 , 08:09
803
0
Ferrari are set to offer Lewis Hamilton a contract in Formula 1, as the Brit aims to beat Michael Schumacher's tally of seven world championships.
Hamilton's Mercedes deal expires at the end of this season and it's unclear where his future lies. The 38-year-old is not expected to retire, as he wants to win a record eighth world title. As it stands, he is the joint-record holder with Schumacher on seven titles.
Mercedes have struggled to compete with Red Bull since the 2021 season, which is forcing Hamilton to consider his future. He's previously described the idea of joining Ferrari a "dream" - one that could become true next year.
As reported by the Daily Mail, Ferrari will offer Hamilton a £40million contract. The company's president John Elkann is said to be in close contact with the seven-time world champion, such is their desire to get this deal over the line.
It's believed Ferrari's preferred option is to partner Hamilton with current driver Charles Leclerc, which would see Carlos Sainz Jr leave the team. An alternative option is Leclerc moving to Mercedes to partner George Russell.
Greggs, Costa & Pret coffees have 'huge differences in caffeine', says report
Mercedes are reportedly determined to keep Hamilton on board. Ultimately, Hamilton's decision is likely to come down to which team can offer him the best chance of winning a record eighth world title. Schumacher won five world titles while driving for Ferrari.
Hamilton wants to eclipse Michael Schumacher's tally of seven world titles (Getty Images)Do you think Lewis Hamilton will leave Mercedes for Ferrari? Let us know in the comments below!
Ferrari are the most successful team in F1, winning 16 Constructors' Championships and 15 Drivers' Championships. Yet they have not won either competition since 2008. Ferrari are fourth in this year's Constructors' Championship with one podium to their name.
Red Bull, who are leading this year's Constructors' Championship, are unlikely to offer Hamilton a drive due to the presence of reigning, two-time world champion Max Verstappen. The Dutchman's current deal doesn't expire until the end of 2028.
Another option is a move to Aston Martin, who are not afraid to hire an older driver. Two-time world champion Fernando Alonso, 41, is currently on their books and performing well, with the team sitting second in this year's Constructors' Championship.
Yet Alonso would need to leave Aston Martin or be given the boot for a spot to open up. The team's other driver is Lance Stroll, who is the son of owner Lawrence.
Speaking to Sky Sports in 2021, Hamilton discussed the idea of joining Ferrari. He said: "It's definitely going to be crazy to think that I never drove for Ferrari."
He added: "Of course I look at the colour and the red, it's just... it's still the red. I have a couple of Ferraris at home, so I do get to drive a Ferrari, just not the one! For everyone that's a dream position to be in. It was just never really fully on the cards for me."