Ralf Schumacher Is Not Amused By Lewis Hamilton’s Mercedes F1 Holdout

Former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher, the younger brother of F1 great Michael Schumacher, says that Lewis Hamilton’s 2021 contract holdout is not a good look for anyone.

In fact, Schumacher says it’s downright “embarrassing.”

Hamilton’s failure to ink a contract means, technically speaking, that the only team with an official vacancy ahead of the new season next month is Mercedes. And that vacancy is the best seat in all of racing.

Schumacher told German media outlet Sky Deutschland that Hamilton is taking a “risk,” perhaps not only with his image, but also because Mercedes has the highly competitive youngster George Russell waiting in the wings at Williams.

When asked about Hamilton’s delayed contract negotiations, Schumacher said: “One thing is clear—Formula 1 is bigger than any one individual. It’s February now and the most important man at the moment in Formula 1—the seven-time world champion—is still not signed.

“I find that a shame and, I have to say honestly, a bit embarrassing. Lewis also must not forget the risk of what he is doing.”

Hamilton and Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff went into the offseason without contracts. Wolff has since signed on to try to add to Mercedes’ seven consecutive Formula 1 Constructors’ Championships.

The 45-year-old Schumacher, who started 180 races with six victories between 1997 and 2007, said he isn’t sure why Hamilton and Mercedes are still yet to agree, adding: “It’s always said that it’s just about the money, but I hope not.”

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