Lewis revs up for deal

LEWIS HAMILTON is hoping to sign a bumper new Mercedes deal before opening the defence of his Formula One championship.

The new season starts in Melbourne a week on Sunday and, after a strong two weeks’ winter testing, Hamilton will be firm favourite to claim a fifth world title.

The 33-year-old British driver’s new contract – expected to take him to the end of the 2020 season – is set to earn him up to £40million a year.

“I hope it happens before Melbourne,” said Hamilton. “Mercedes know I am committed to them and they are to me.”