Hamilton - Winning form ideal for contract talks with Mercedes

Lewis Hamilton says his current winning form is a good reason to initiate contract talks with Mercedes.

The 32-year-old is committed to the Silver Arrows outfit for 2018 but has expressed his will to remain on-board and in F1 for the longer term.

"Racing really gives me more pleasure than ever," he said in Malaysia.

"But you have to look ahead. So I'm thinking about the decisions that I will take in the future.

Vettel 'not fussed' about points deficit to Hamilton

"The longer I put off leaving the sport, the later my - how do I say it? - 'next life' will begin," Hamilton, explained.

"So I'm just trying to weigh everything up. In the meantime I'm continuing my career in Formula 1."

Pundits believe the three-time world champion will extend his allegiance to Mercedes for an additional three years, starting in 2019.

Hamilton, who currently enjoys a 28-point lead in the world championship over arch-rival Sebastian Vettel following three consecutive races wins, believes the timing is right to kick start contract talks with his employer.

"At some point in the near future it will be the time to discuss it," he said.

"Actually I think right now is a good time for negotiations, because I'm in great shape. You always want to negotiate a deal when you're winning and leading the championship!" he smiled.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.