Mercedes team principal Ross Brawn has dropped another hint Michael Schumacher will remain with the team for at least one more season.
Although Brawn maintains no discussions have started with the seven-times world champion as to whether he will extend his stay with the team beyond this year, the signs are growing Schumacher will put pen to paper on another contract.
Earlier this week the 43-year-old told Germany's Bild newspaper he is "not yet satisfied" with what he has achieved following his return to Formula One after three years in retirement.
Insisting he remains "highly motivated", the feeling of returning to the podium again, as was the case in finishing third recently in the European Grand Prix in Valencia, has stirred his senses.
As far as Brawn is concerned, the team are prepared to give the German as long as he needs to make up his mind, although there is a feeling Schumacher is having fun and so should continue.
Brawn said: "We are focused on Michael for as long as it takes, and whatever it takes. Then we will see where we are elsewhere.
"We haven't discussed it (a contract extension), but he enjoys himself, and if he enjoys himself, why not (continue)?"
Brawn, who has previously suggested talks are likely to commence before the end of next month's mid-season break, knows he has to sit down with Schumacher sooner rather than later.
Brawn added: "Inevitably you come to a point where you say 'Let's have the discussions' because these things can sometimes take some time.
"You have to have the discussion and reach a conclusion in order to plan for the future.
"But there is no deadline or critical point where he or we have said we must have a decision by. It must be the right decision. That is the most important thing.
"Knowing Michael as I do, it will be a logical and sensible conclusion, driven by passion because he enjoys what he does."
