- Mercedes are still confident that Hamilton will sign a new deal with the company
- Talks over a new deal are still on to have the seven-time World Champion at the franchise in the new season
Mercedes remain confident that Lewis Hamilton will sign a new deal ahead of the pre-season commencement in March.
Hamilton, who clinched a record seventh F1 world title last season, is out of contract right now after his previous deal with the Silver Arrows expired at the turn of the year.
The British superstar has made it clear he wants to agree fresh terms with Mercedes before next season gets underway, but reports claim the extension is being held up by a list of demands he has made.
It has also been suggested that Mercedes co-owners Daimler are drawing up contingency plans in case he does not back down during negotiations, with Williams star George Russell their target for the vacant seat if that happens.
The reigning F1 world champions are confident their star man will pen a new deal before pre-season testing starts on March 2.
