F1 Rumors: Lewis Hamilton's Demands Revealed; Brit Racer Rejects Mercedes' Offer

The 2021 Formula 1 season is just three months away, and Mercedes currently has one driver on their roster after Lewis Hamilton’s contract expired on Dec. 31.

The seven-time F1 champion has rejected the German team’s latest offer, leaving him a free agent ahead of the new season.

The British racer and Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff were confident of reaching an agreement but seemed to be having difficulties in terms of being on the same page with regards to Hamilton’s demands.

Motorsport Italy is reporting that the former McLaren driver has made four demands, which Mercedes are currently assessing. The Briton is said to want $49 million per season in order to remain the highest-paid driver in the sport.

In addition to that, Hamilton is also said to have demanded 10% of the prize money Mercedes receives when they win a championship and a gift in the form of the new Mercedes AMG One.

Hamilton likewise wants assurances that he will be part of the Mercedes brand in the future with a role more than just as a brand ambassador.

Wolff has been given the responsibility to get the deal wrapped up at the earliest, owing to his relationship with Hamilton. The president of the Daimler board that owns Mercedes, Ola Kallenius, is reportedly unhappy with the driver’s demands

The executive is believed to be considering to call up junior driver George Russell to fill the seat if they cannot reach an agreement with Hamilton.

Another issue facing Mercedes, according to motorsport website Car & Bike, is that Hamilton insists on a four-year deal in contrary to the initial offer of two years.

The Daimler board is reported to be unconvinced about committing that much money on Hamilton who turns 36 years old in a few days.

In addition, the Daimler board of directors is said to be blocking any move by the team to appease Hamilton by agreeing to sign him up for the long-term.