Mercedes star Lewis Hamilton: A confusing message over his future, or was cat let out of the bag?

Lewis Hamilton

Hamilton: A confusing message over his future, or was cat let out of the bag?

The six-time champion issued an Instagram post he later deleted

Ian Parkes

Tuesday 21 April 2020 12:05 Updated: 13:39

Lewis Hamilton's future is naturally the source of great interest and speculation.

The six-time champion is out of contract with Mercedes at the end this year, and while it appears likely he will stay with the team that has helped him win five of those titles, until he puts pen to paper on a new deal then question marks will remain.

The 35-year-old has long been linked with a move to Ferrari, fuelled this year by the fact Sebastian Vettel's current agreement also expires, opening the door on a potentially career-ending move to the Scuderia.

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Ferrari CEO Louis Camilleri and team principal Mattia Binotto have previously fanned the flames as both sang Hamilton's praises at the end of last year.

Binotto has since stated his admiration for Vettel, and that the four-time champion is his "first option", while talks have started on the prospect of the 32-year-old extending a stay that is now in its sixth season.

Vettel confirmed last week there was the possibility of him even signing a new deal this summer prior to whatever proved to be the opening race of the season.

Vettel could sign new Ferrari deal before first grand prixRead more

That prompted a headline in a national newspaper that read: 'Lewis Hamilton’s dreams of mega-money Ferrari move dashed as Sebastian Vettel reveals plans to stay'.

Clearly irked by the splash, Hamilton responded with a post on his Instagram page, seemingly nailing his colours to Mercedes' mast.

Hamilton wrote: “First off, there is no dream of a dash to another team. I am with my dream team.

“Second, there's not a thing in my way as I’m not trying to move. I’m with the people who have cared from day 1. We are the best team! @mercedesamgf1.”

A few hours later, Hamilton deleted the post. That naturally resulted in fans confused and speculating as to his motives.

The likelihood is Hamilton perhaps overstepped the mark in making such a comment, responding as he did to a newspaper article, which would be against better judgment, and he was either told to take it down or, realising the error of his ways, did so of his own accord.

Whatever the reason, Hamilton's followers will be delighted at the fact he has all but officially confirmed his intentions.