Lewis Hamilton is reportedly working on signing a new contract with Mercedes despite the recent rumours that the Brit could quit Formula 1 at the end of this season or next. The deal that he is currently on expires at the end of the 2018 season, but the three-time world champion is looking to prolong it.

Mercedes' Niki Lauda has denied all the suggestions that Hamilton is nearing retirement from the sport. Speaking to Germany's Sky, Lauda stated that Hamilton would not follow the way of former teammate Nico Rosberg: "I can guarantee you Lewis is not Nico Rosberg."

Rosberg retired from the sport very unexpectedly last November, only days after claiming his first world champion. Rosberg stated that the one championship was enough and wanted to enjoy other aspects of life. In Hamilton's case, according to Lauda, he will keep on racing.

"Lewis will continue racing. He has an ongoing contract and we are already discussing a new contract for him. Hamilton has asked for that. We are motivated, he is motivated, but it is not yet the time to really negotiate. But quitting is not an option.

"I must admit that I have huge respect for Lewis. He started this season in an incredible way, was trained to the bone and motivated. His qualifying lap in Baku was of unprecedented beauty. He is driving at the top of his ability and no one can beat him."

Fergal Walsh