Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes-AMG Petronas have agreed on a two-year contract extension for the 2019 and 2020 Formula One seasons.

Hamilton joined Mercedes’ works team in 2013, after spending 7 years racing for the Mercedes-powered McLarens. Since his switch, the British driver secured three world titles (after his first with McLaren), while winning a total of 44 Grand Prix. In total, he has 61 Formula One wins over the course of his career, second only to Michael Schumacher.

“This contract extension has basically been a formality since Toto and I sat down during the winter, so it’s good to put pen to paper, announce it and then get on with business as usual,” said Lewis.

“I have been part of the Mercedes racing family for 20 years and I have never been happier inside a team than I am now. We are on the same wavelength both on and off track – and I am looking forward to winning more in the future and shining even more light on the three-pointed star. I’m very confident that Mercedes is the right place to be over the coming years.”

Team boss Toto Wolff meanwhile stated that the final terms of the contract were only decided on this week, despite long-term negotiations.

“We signed the final documents this week and didn’t want to keep people waiting any longer! There is not much about Lewis as a Formula One driver that hasn’t been said already – he is one of the all-time greats and his track record speaks for itself.”

“But what I enjoy most about working with him is getting to know the man inside the racing helmet: his relentless drive for self-improvement, his emotional intelligence as a team member and his loyalty to those around him.”

“Mercedes has become Lewis’ home in Formula One and his story is linked forever with the silver and green of Mercedes-AMG Petronas.”

We’re about half way through the 2018 F1 season and with the German Grand Prix only a few days away, Hamilton is currently second in the Driver Standings, having amassed 163 points. Sebastian Vettel is first with 171 points.