Lewis Hamilton’s contract with Mercedes was only extended by one year. The harbinger of a possible farewell after an eighth F1 title? According to Hamilton himself, there were other reasons why he only signed for one season.
“I am in the fortunate position where I have achieved most of the things I wanted to achieve so far so I don’t really need to plan far ahead,” Hamilton responded when presenting the new Mercedes F1 car. was asked why his contract was extended by only one year.
“I think we are going through a very unusual period in our lives right now and I only wanted one year. Then we can discuss whether we want more and possibly add a year if we wish. ”
Hamilton equaled Michael Schumacher’s record number of F1 titles last year and can only set the record this year with a possible eighth world title. Still, according to Hamilton, that is not the motivation to continue.
“An important factor in my mind is that this is not the deciding factor to continue,” said Hamilton. “I’m going to race because I love racing.”
“If you are going to race for the number of titles I think I would lose my good feeling and love for the sport. Obviously it is the ultimate dream, but it is not the deciding factor that will determine whether I continue with F1 or not. ”
For Lewis Hamilton, this year is therefore about much more than winning races and an eighth world title. Hamilton wants to continue to fight against racism and for more diversity.
“In the past, it was all about winning championships,” said Hamilton. “But now it’s really about pushing.”
“There has been a lot of discussion about equality and inclusion in the past year, but I think they were just words.”
“This year it’s all about pushing for more diversity, making sure that real action is taken, that’s the core of racing for me.”
According to Hamilton, an eighth title is not the main goal this year, although he does realize that all Mercedes employees are doing everything they can to achieve this.
“Of course we exist to win. That is what all those boys and girls are doing here and what they are working towards. The goal is to make that happen for them, ”Hamilton concluded.
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