Hamilton hints at long-term Mercedes F1 deal

Baku - Lewis Hamilton has given the strongest hint yet that he definitely wants to stay at Mercedes.

Although both sides have indicated they intend to sign a new contract beyond 2018, until now a deal has been delayed as "details" are negotiated.

Hamilton in for the long haul

But when asked what the future holds for him, quadruple world champion Hamilton answered: "My hope for the future is that we continue.

"I really want to take this team the furthest it has ever been," the Briton added.

READ: Hamilton expects new Mercedes deal 'soon'

"I want to be part of this journey where Mercedes are the most successful Formula 1 team in history."

Hamilton often gives mixed messages about how long he will remain committed to F1, but he now indicates that he wants a long-term deal to stay at Mercedes.

"I want to push it as far as I can, with the lifespan as a driver that I have, that it would take a long, long time for anyone else to catch up," he said.

"I think it would really upset the red cars and the red team, so that's my goal."