Mercedes keeping same drivers - Lauda

Niki Lauda says Mercedes is definitely sticking with its current drivers beyond 2018.

It is believed Lewis Hamilton's long-delayed new contract is now signed, and that the Briton has asked for Valtteri Bottas to also be retained until 2020.

Lauda confident

"I guarantee that next year Lewis Hamilton and also Valtteri Bottas will drive for Mercedes. That is fixed," Lauda, the team chairman, confirmed to the ORF broadcaster in Austria.

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The Formula One legend said a "one line press release" will be put out "at some point".

"It will state that he (Hamilton) has signed and then the topic will finally be over," Lauda added.