The 2023 F1 season is currently in the midst of the summer break but still, there has been official confirmation about whether Lewis Hamilton has signed a contract extension with Mercedes or not. As the discussions between the two parties continue, the 38-year-old’s father, Anthony Hamilton, has explained in an interview with Channel 4, the one condition under which his son will continue in F1.
As for Hamilton’s future in F1, Lawrence Barretto has noted on the official Formula 1 website that his signing the deal with Mercedes is only a matter of when rather than if. Moreover, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has also stated that only “trivial” things remain before he signs the contract extension.
Since Hamilton has taken so long to sign the contract, speculations have increased about his future in F1. However, his father Anthony believes that his son needs only one thing to continue in the sport.
Anthony Hamilton reveals what Lewis Hamilton needs to continue in F1
In a recent interview with Channel 4, Anthony Hamilton opened up on when he believes will be the right time for his son to retire from F1. As quoted by planetf1.com, he said, “I think the most important thing is he (Lewis Hamilton) still enjoys the racing. And as long as he enjoys it, he’ll continue“.
The seven-time world champion himself has stated on several occasions that he hopes to carry on in F1 for a few more years. However, he did admit in his Channel 4 interview during the British Grand Prix weekend that there were some real sacrifices that he makes on a daily basis to continue in the sport.
The 38-year-old admitted that he does have doubts on a few occasions about how long he can continue in the sport, considering the amount of travelling that is required. However, he did make it clear that he is ready to make such sacrifices as he still enjoys racing. Meanwhile, in another interaction, Hamilton stated that what motivates him to keep going is his dream to win a record eighth title.
“We will get that championship back“: Hamilton has made his ambitions clear
Lewis Hamilton is currently tied with legendary F1 driver Michael Schumacher on seven world championships. Hence, if the Briton were to win another title, he would hold the record to himself.
It is the same record that Hamilton seems adamant to achieve, having delivered a motivational message to Mercedes fans during a recent Petronas event. While addressing the fans present at the event, the 38-year-old said, “We will get a win at some stage (this season). We will get that championship back“.
“We will get a win at some stage, we will get that championship back.”
SPEAK KING! 🐐💜 pic.twitter.com/EtFo0jlYNt
— Marina (@xxoMarina) May 16, 2023
Hamilton may need to wait at least another year before he can achieve his dream as Red Bull have dominated the 2023 campaign so far. Reigning champion Max Verstappen has won 10 of the opening 12 races of the season and has a whopping 166-point lead over fourth-placed Hamilton in the championship.
