Hamilton ‘close’ to new Mercedes deal

BARCELONA: Lewis Hamilton says he is close to signing a new Mercedes contract after winning Sunday’s Spanish Grand Prix watched by several members of the all-conquering German constructor’s board.

In the aftermath of his dominant triumph ahead of teammate Valtteri Bottas, the defending four-time world champion indicated he will soon be inking a long-awaited new deal with the champions. An announcement before or during the Monaco Grand Prix later this month is now expected.

“All the bosses have been here and I don’t think there is anyone in the hierarchy who has any concerns,” said Hamilton.The 33-year-old Englishman was so thrilled by both his own personal return to form and the team’s work on improving his car’s performance at the Circuit de Catalunya that he suggested, after the race, that he may sign a long-term deal.