Brad in the pits: Lewis Hamilton 'excited' to begin filming new F1 movie with Pitt in Silverstone

Lewis Hamilton confirmed on Thursday that talks about a new contract with Mercedes had proceeded beyond salary and duration and was now focused on fine details.

Speaking at Silverstone ahead of his home British Grand Prix, a race he has won a record eight times, the seven-time world champion reiterated his confidence in the Silver Arrows and his belief that they can catch and overhaul Red Bull.

He also confirmed he would support any peaceful protest by climate activists and felt thrilled to see filming begin of the Hollywood movie about Formula 1 during the weekend at the circuit.

Asked during a mandatory pre-event news conference if recent positive comments about their talks by Mercedes team chief Toto Wolff were true, Hamilton said: "Yes, that's correct."

He added that a terse radio exchange between them, when Hamilton grumbled about his car's lack of performance during the Austrian Grand Prix, was typical of their relationship's open and honest nature.

"The best thing about our partnership is that we can be direct with each other," he said. "Toto is just an out-and-out racer, so he was trying to encourage me, and that was his way of doing it.

"We always learn from our last races, plus - on my side - I've reviewed my comments and where I was at mentally, and we'll make sure I adjust that for the future, and I feel supported."

The ?? of Silverstone. pic.twitter.com/eHJKTMpH5v

'100% faith in team'

Hamilton added that he had been involved in meetings this week to improve this year's car and a more competitive one next year.

"I'm thinking that before the end of this season, we'll already be well into the contract," he said, indicating his confidence in the team for the future.

"I still have 100% faith in this team. It has taken