Lewis Hamilton, 39, committed to two more seasons with Mercedes by signing a contract until the end of 2025 – but has admitted he could still walk away from F1 before then
Lewis Hamilton admits he could still retire from Formula 1 this year.
That’s despite having committed in writing to at least two more seasons racing for Mercedes. The seven-time champion signed an extension last year keeping him with the team until the end of 2025.
When his current contract expires, he will be nearly 41 years old, having turned 39 earlier this month. Additionally, he stated a few years back that it was doubtful he would be competing in Formula One racing when he turned forty.
Recalling that remark, Hamilton said in a conversation with Formule1.nl that it might still turn out to be a prediction. He stated, “That is still feasible.” “I don’t have any specific plans for the future because I still feel well and like what I do. I now realize that in life, you should never say never.”
The British player also acknowledges that he never imagined his passion for the game would last as long as it has. He acknowledged that there are moments when he is far less of a fan of Formula One, though, maybe referencing to his heartbreak at the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
“I never imagined that, after being in Formula 1 for such a long time, I would still feel the same love for the sport,” he continued. You love it more than you hate it at different times in this love-hate relationship. I believe there has to be a tipping point. However, the love endures.”
Hamilton says he still has plenty of time to consider having a family of his own and all the other things life has to offer. He exclaimed, “I don’t have time for that.” “I like having uncle status. I’m still not sure if I want kids or not.”
Mercedes can rest easy knowing that Hamilton’s latest contract will help them avoid having to consider how they will replace the enormous void left by their star driver when the time comes. But they already have a rising star on their books in 17-year-old Andrea Kimi Antonelli, who has team manager Toto Wolff impressed.
“We got Kimi under the wings in 2012 and he was a great kid already,” the speaker said in reference to the teenager who is making his Formula 2 debut this year. The character was evident; he was powerful. He was very confident when we had him in the garage. His go-karting record was incredible, and when he entered the junior formulas, he won every season during his rookie year.
“But with all the hype surrounding him, we need to exercise caution. It’s a significant step to put him in an F2 car because those vehicles are heavier and far more potent. I believe he has what it takes to be a really great player in this sport if we give him time and don’t expect him to be killing it in his debut season. He’s only seventeen years old.
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