In Formula One's return to France, Hamilton won from pole while championship leader Vettel caused a collision in turn one, demoting him to the back of the grid from where he ultimately finished fifth, allowing Hamilton to retake the championship lead by 14 points. In Austria Hamilton suffered his first retirement since the 2016 Malaysian Grand Prix due to a mechanical issue, bringing an end to a record 33-race streak without retirements, all of which he finished in the points. Vettel's third-place finish meant the championship lead swung back in the German's favour. Despite starting from pole at Silverstone, Hamilton was denied a home victory after a collision with Räikkönen on the first lap left him virtually last. Despite the spin, Hamilton recovered to finish in second place while Vettel stormed to victory. In the week leading up to the German Grand Prix, Hamilton signed a two-year contract with Mercedes, reported to be worth up to £40 million, making Hamilton the best paid driver in the history of Formula One. A hydraulic issue in qualifying meant Hamilton could only manage fourteenth place on the grid. In the race, Hamilton took one of the best wins of his career as he worked his way through the midfield and handled changing weather conditions, compounded by another mistake from Vettel who crashed into the barriers from the lead of his home race. The championship lead swapped hands yet again, this time in favour of the Briton. Hamilton took consecutive victories again, and his fifth win of the season as he won from pole in Hungary, extending his championship lead to 24 points entering the summer break.