Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton says agreeing to a new contract with Mercedes is “probably” a formality, but sitting down for talks is “not a priority right now.”

“A formality? I don’t know, maybe, probably,” Hamilton said ahead of the Portuguese Grand Prix on Sunday.

“At some stage I guess we have to sit down and have the conversation. But it’s not a priority right now.

“Getting the job done this year, for me personally, is the priority. So that’s what I’m solely focused on right now.”

Hamilton, 35, is on course to retain his world title and equal Michael Schumacher’s record of seven.

He equalled the German’s record 91 wins on October 11 at the Eifel Grand Prix and can take sole possession of that honour himself on Sunday.

Previously the Briton signed three-year contracts with Mercedes, but now said there were a few factors to consider when it comes to settling how long he wants his next deal to be – including the effects of the coronavirus pandemic.

“I do want to stay, and I think when we do sit down, normally (when) we plan, it’s been three-year periods, but of course, we’re in a different time,” he said.

“Do I want to continue for three years is also a question – there are many, many questions still to be answered.

“Time will tell. I can’t really say too much more. Hopefully you’ll hear something in the next couple of months.”