LEWIS LOVES LOYAL FAMILY

Off the pace and with little hope of title... but Hamilton says Mercedes is his 'home'

- ANDY DUNN

LEWIS HAMILTON has reaffirmed his commitment to Mercedes despite a growing feeling in Formula One that a new Ideal is still far from a formality.

The seven-time world champion is in his 11th season with Mercedes and has won six of his titles with the team. But his contract expires at the end of 2023.

And there is still no sign of an extension being agreed. With Mercedes way off the pace set by the all-conquering Red Bull team, ex-drivers have been queuing up to suggest Hamilton, 38, should angle for one final move in his stellar career. Even Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has said contract talks have taken a backseat while they try to improve the performance of the W14 car.