Lewis Hamilton says winning his eighth championship would not be a “deciding factor” regarding his Formula 1 future.
After another dominant year in 2020, the Briton is an overwhelming favourite to go on and secure what would be a record-setting eighth title this season, putting him one ahead of Michael Schumacher.
At the same time, Hamilton is only under contract at Mercedes until the end of this year. And with new regulations coming in 2022, it has been suggested Lewis could decide to retire if he claims that eighth crown.
“I have made a real important decision in my mind that I don’t want that to be the deciding factor,” he said after the launch of the new Mercedes W12 this week.
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“I got into racing because I loved racing and that has got to be at the core of what I do. If I don’t love racing, if all you’re going for is accolades, all you’re going for is titles I feel like I could potentially lose my way.
“Of course it [the eighth championship] is the ultimate dream, but I don’t think it’s going to be the deciding factor as to whether I stay or keep going? It’s more whether when I put the helmet on, I still have a smile when I leave the garage.”
Hamilton though also admits he won’t be in a massive rush to sign a further extension to his contract beyond 2021.
“I’m fully invested in this season and delivering, I still love what I do,” he said.
“I’m generally in a fortunate position where I don’t have to commit to multiple years, so I chose to have a one-year deal. Then I can see how the year goes and where we are at mid-year, or towards the end of the year.
“Who knows if we will still be in a pandemic. But it doesn’t mean I’m not committed, I’m still very, very committed to the sport.”
Another interesting development this week is the revelation Hamilton has split with his manager and confidant Marc Hynes after the pair discussed their partnership over the winter.
“Marc has left Project 44 (Hamilton’s management company) to pursue other opportunities within motorsports and Lewis wishes him well knowing that he will be as valuable to his next challenge, as he was to P44,” the Daily Mail reported a source close to Hamilton as saying.
“Lewis is very grateful for all his support over the last five years, both personally and in helping him build his company.
“During that time Lewis won four world championships and broke numerous records, and Marc was part of and shared in that success.
“Marc and Lewis have known each other since they were young, as friends first and business partners second, so, while they are parting ways in a business sense, they remain close friends.”