After the last Formula 1 race of the season, voices became louder calling for record world champion Lewis Hamilton to resign. The Brit who works for Ferrari defends himself with a clear statement.
Was that it for Lewis Hamilton? The debacle in Ferrari’s first year is fueling speculation that the former champion could end his career this winter.
Some Formula 1 experts even want Hamilton to resign. Among others, “Sky” expert Ralf Schumacher and ex-F1 boss Bernie Ecclestone suggested this step to the Ferrari driver.
Hamilton doesn’t want to be impressed by the ongoing criticism.
In a media roundtable he was asked what he would say to people discussing his possible resignation. Hamilton replied tellingly: “I wouldn’t tell them anything.”
And further: “None of them have done what I have done, so they don’t know more than I do.”
Lewis Hamilton wants out of the “Matrix”
After leaving the future somewhat open immediately after the race in Abu Dhabi, he recently became clearer again.
“It’s about always keeping the dream in mind,” said the F1 veteran. “I still have a dream that I hold in my heart and I’m working towards it.” These statements indicate that he will continue to drive in Formula 1 for the time being.
The motivation for the great success is still there. Hamilton made it clear that even the sobering year without a podium had not taken away the fun he had in his job.
Video: Hamilton at Ferrari: A nightmare in red
Ex-colleague Nico Rosberg, however, believes that Hamilton has already mentally finished with Formula 1.
“He’s in a quandary because I’m sure he would like to quit,” the 2016 world champion told Sky. From his point of view, Hamilton is clearly no longer interested in another season. But saying goodbye would be a “total loss of face”.
Hamilton wants to unplug himself from the “Matrix” during the upcoming winter break and throw his cell phone in the trash can. Maybe that will help.