When Lewis Hamilton cruised to a seventh F1 Drivers’ Championship last year, a new Mercedes contract appeared a formality. However, the Brit is still yet to sign a new deal – and is currently a free agent. But those worried about his future in the sport shouldn’t be, if comments made by his father are anything to go by.
Hamilton was unparalleled in 2020, cruising to another F1 crown to draw level with the legendary Michael Schumacher on seven titles.
But, in the aftermath of that triumph, his Formula One future has become muddled. Hamilton has indicated he wants to stay with the Silver Arrows but no agreement has been thrashed out yet. He’s previously held talks with Ferrari about a sensational move across the divide but that won’t be happening, with their drivers for 2021 already confirmed.
So what now? Some have suggested Hamilton could retire, with the Brit keen to pursue other avenues such as Electric E racing.
But his father has already suggested his son doesn’t want that to happen, claiming in November the 36-year-old was still hungry to achieve more success.
“As far as I’m aware, he carries on racing,” he said. “He loves racing, he loves what he does. He has a voice now in the sport, which is also fantastic, but as far as I’m aware he’s carrying on racing.”
“It’s a definite, as far as I know, the last time I spoke to him yesterday, he’s definitely carrying on racing.”
Hamilton’s father also claimed the Brit was committed to chasing down his dreams, rather than pursuing targets he’s set for himself.
“It’s nothing to do with targets,” he added.
“He’s not racing for trophies, he races because he loves what he does and also he loves to inspire others.”
“At the moment his achievements, we hope, are inspiring young kids who have a dreams they want to achieve.”
“As far as Lewis is concerned, and we as a family as well, it really is about hope, opportunity, dreams, achievements, and not so much targets [on the track].”
Meanwhile, Mercedes chief Toto Wolff has claimed the Silver Arrows must be ready for ‘curveballs’ amid uncertainty over Hamilton’s future.
“It doesn’t worry me at all, because I will always respect Lewis’s decisions,” he told Autosport.com.
“Whether this is staying with us for a long time, or whether that means leaving the sport and pursuing different interests. I think we need to be ready for all kinds of curveballs being thrown at us.
“But at the same time, we talk a lot, and we are very transparent with each other. I think there is more to achieve together.”
Wolff also hailed Hamilton, admitting his skills go beyond merely being the fastest driver.
“It’s not one dimensional,” the 48-year-old added.
