Another week has passed and we are not really much closer to knowing what the future holds for Lewis Hamilton.

The Mercedes star is yet to sign a new contract with his team, despite the fact that the deal has the potential to be the most lucrative in the sport's history.

The fact is that the money on offer may be irrelevant, as the world champion has numerous other projects lined up outside of F1 and at the age of 33, that may well be where he's now looking.

Even Valtteri Bottas doesn't seem any the wiser as to the plans of the British driver, who remains top of the 2018 standings.

The Finn himself committed to Mercedes back in September and he could be forgiven for having mixed feelings about whether Hamilton stays or goes, with a shock move to Ferrari having been widely discussed.

On the one hand, Hamilton's extraordinary success can only be a good thing, but it must be difficult for Bottas to constantly operate in his shadow.

Nevertheless, the former Williams driver has explained the dynamics behind their relationship and why he hopes Hamilton will soon put pen to paper.

Bottas' hopes for Hamilton 

“Of course, it would be nice that Lewis stays too, because I enjoy working with him,” Bottas said, per PlanetF1.

“The fact that he was won four championships and me none pushes me to outdo myself.

“We work well together and that is why I would rather stay with Lewis on this team.”

It may well be that Hamilton is waiting to hear on Mercedes' upgrades before agreeing to next season, with the deal he signed in 2015 coming to an end at the finale of the current campaign.

As per Sky Sports, negotiations could see him earn a mammoth £120million if he does stay put and there will be plenty of voices at Mercedes imploring him to do so.

Do you think Hamilton should stay at Mercedes? Have your say in the comments.