F1’s crazy season has kickstarted unusually earlier than expected as speculation surrounding Lewis Hamilton’s imminent contract negotiations is reputed to be worth $70M per year should he decide to extend beyond his current contract which expires at the end of 2023. According to media-based speculation, which is not often the most trustworthy of sources, Hamilton’s new contract includes a transition into an ambassadorial role.

Further speculation hints that 90 percent of Hamilton’s $140M contract will be paid by INEOS which is owned by British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe. Both Ratcliffe and Hamilton have become great friends with Hamilton jumping on board Ratcliffe’s failed bid to buy Premier League football club Chelsea FC.

Ratcliffe has most recently turned his Premier League-owning ambitions towards Manchester United which is up for sale. Where Ratcliffe invests, Hamilton is sure to follow.

Meanwhile, both Hamilton and Mercedes are pushing for an ambassadorial role when Hamilton’s F1 career is over. His asking price? $25M per year.