Mercedes 'could end relationship with Lewis Hamilton at end of season due to staggering salary'

MERCEDES could reportedly part ways with Lewis Hamilton at the end of the F1 season.

The decision could come as the British driver has earned a staggering £60million-per-year from his contract.

According to The Times, the Brackley-based team could move on from the seven-time world champion once his current deal expires.

The report suggests that the prospect of this has been raised by "many Hamilton detractors".

While there is still every chance that the 38-year-old could extend terms with Mercedes.

In January it was reported that he was set to be offered a two-year extension worth £62m-per-year.

The deal is also rumoured to include a 10-year ambassadorial role for when he does eventually retire, worth £22m-a-year.

Mercedes' main sponsor Ineos, founded by potential Man United owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, will reportedly pay 90 per cent of the contract.

Meanwhile, Hamilton was recently told Mercedes are up to 12 MONTHS in development behind rivals Red Bull.

Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez have secured one-two finishes in the opening two races of the season.

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Indeed, Hamilton claimed he had "never seen a car so fast" after Verstappen breezed past him on lap 12 of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.

Consequently, Mercedes have admitted they need to look at changing their W14 car concept altogether, with "radical" changes set to be introduced.

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