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Mercedes slams 'pure fiction' Hamilton contract rumors

Mercedes says reports of a financial discord delaying contract talks between the German outfit and Lewis Hamilton are "pure fiction".

Mercedes and Hamilton are engaged in negotiations over the latter's future in F1, with all signs pointing to the seven-time world champion extending his partnership with his current employer.

Both parties are likely in the process of defining the final details of their next deal, but the delay has led to rumors claiming that money has put the talks at a standstill.

Hamilton is reportedly seeking a €40 million retainer and a percentage of the team's prize money. Italy's Corriere della Sera contends that new team owner INEOS is willing to contribute to Mercedes' offer to fulfill Hamilton's basic financial demands.

However, a spokesperson for Mercedes has qualified the reports as “pure fiction", insisting "there are no reasons to be concerned" by the contract delay.

Many believe that the current economic conjecture has compelled Mercedes to drive a hard bargain with its star driver, with mega-buck eight-figure salaries hard to justify.

George Russell's remarkable performance as Hamilton's substitute in last month's Sakhir GP has perhaps also provided Mercedes with leverage in its talks with Hamilton.

In Abu Dhabi, Mercedes F1 boss Toto Wolff said that his negotiations with Hamilton could extend up until the eve of pre-season testing in early March.

"We are not worried about eventually getting it done," the Austrian said last month. "We are not putting a special date to it because we don't want to be under pressure.

"Sooner or later it needs to be done and at the latest before we go testing."

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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.

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