Hamilton declines Ferrari offer amidst Mercedes contract delays

With Lewis Hamilton's Mercedes contract extension still unresolved, recent reports indicate Ferrari made overtures to sign the 7-time champion.

According to Italian journalist Leo Turrini, Ferrari president John Elkann personally contacted Hamilton with a contract offer, which he politely declined.

Hamilton's current Mercedes deal expires at the end of 2022.

Despite indications an extension is imminent, after months of delays, nothing has been formally announced.

This triggered speculation of a blockbuster move to Ferrari.

Hamilton committed to Mercedes despite delay

Former F1 figures like Eddie Jordan and Martin Brundle suggested Hamilton should consider Ferrari.

However, Turrini claims when personally approached by Elkann, Hamilton turned down the offer.

"Hamilton had been contacted personally by Elkann. I understand he politely replied ‘no thanks’. And you can understand it (unfortunately)," Turrini stated.

Auto Motor und Sport's Michael Schmidt confirmed Elkann was not alone in courting Hamilton.

New Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur also reportedly approached Hamilton, but was again rebuffed.

Schmidt believes Hamilton recognizes remaining with Mercedes is his best championship option.

"Every problem at Mercedes would multiply at Ferrari because it is even more in the spotlight," he noted.

Vasseur previously denied offering Hamilton a deal. He conceded contacting Hamilton regularly given their long history, but insists no formal offer was made.

"We didn’t have discussions,” Vasseur clarified. “I think every single team on the grid would like to have Hamilton at one stage – it would be bullshit to not say something like this."

Both sides confident in eventual Mercedes agreement

Though taking time, Hamilton and Mercedes remain adamant a renewal will happen.

The holdups likely involve discussions over salary, branding rights, and contract length.

"We have got an awful lot to discuss through the winter and my goal is to continue to be with Mercedes,” Hamilton said recently. “I love that we have the long partnership we have."

Barring a dramatic breakdown, expect Hamilton to sign a multi-year Mercedes extension.

However, the curious Ferrari interlude illustrates his status as the most coveted free agent.