F1 boss Stefano Domenicali admitted to being uncertain about Lewis Hamilton's immediate future in the sport, having spoken with the seven-time world champion before the new year.
Intrigue continues to swirl around Hamilton's contract talks with Mercedes, with negotiations dragging on between the two parties and speculation pointing to money as the contentious issue.
Mercedes F1 boss Toto Wolff recently said that talks could extend all the way up until the eve of pre-season testing in March, although many believe that a deal will be signed and sealed well before that term.
Speaking to Sky Sport Italia, Domenicali said he had spoken to Hamilton during the recent holiday period but could not offer any insight into the Britain's plans.
"We spoke during the Christmas period," said the Italian. "He is preparing. He is not telling me if he will sign or not sign the renewal with Mercedes.
Domenicali said that Hamilton has an opportunity thanks to his achievements "to become the best in the world" while also using his notoriety to advance the causes he supports away from the racing arena.
"He also has the opportunity to continue to have a role that goes beyond the sporting dimension," he added. "And he will be able to have that in the future, in other situations.
"But we know that it is one thing to be an 'operational' champion achieving history, and another to do it in another area."
Domenicali said that he hopes all the pieces will soon fall into place for Hamilton and Mercedes.
"I am convinced, and I hope, as an interested party, that everything can be resolved quickly," concluded the F1 boss.
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