Hamilton: It could be soon, it could be far away

Lewis Hamilton’s future in Formula 1 has recently been subject of some speculation, new reports have emerged in Germany suggesting that the triple Formula 1 World Champion might be considering calling it quits when his contract runs out in at the end of 2018, if not earlier.

Well connected Ferrari insider Leo Turrini wrote this week that Mercedes have an option on Sebastian Vettel for 2018 when the German’s contract runs out with Ferrari. Turrini claims the deal was signed before this season started and his source is none other than Niki Lauda.

‘New boy’ Valtteri Bottas delivered his first win for the Silver Arrows, suggesting that the Finn has the pace to be a regular winner and it is highly likely that he his one year contract will be extended.

Thus if Hamilton does decide to quit, within the next two years, Mercedes have their bases covered and are unlikely to be caught flat footed as they were late last year when Nico Rosberg decided to retire after winning the world title.

Hamilton has in the past made no secret that he does entertain the thought of retirement. With a net worth estimated to be around €130-million he is not racing for the money and he is always keen to point out that he has other interests beyond the sport. Music being a big passion.

Earlier this year he mused about retirement in an interview on Channel 4, “I’ve thought about how I’d make the decision, about when the right time would be.”

“I have some sort of plan about what I want to accomplish before making the decision to retire.

“I’ve worked hard to have a life outside the track in recent years, so when I stop it will not be such a big difference.”

“Some drivers focus only on racing, and when they stop competing there is nothing more for them. So I’m very aware I am building my brand in preparation for when I retire.”

“I don’t think about retiring a huge amount, but of course I do think about it”

“At the end of each season and particularly at the beginning of each season, when you’re going through the tough training.”

“I really don’t know when is going to be the time. It could be soon, it could be far away. That’s the exciting thing about life,” Hamilton added cryptically.

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