F1 News, Reports and Race Results

Hamilton tight-lipped with Domenicali on Mercedes contract talks

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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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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