Lewis Hamilton has dropped the firmest hint yet that he will stay in Formula 1, and commit to Mercedes, when the new regulations are introduced in 2021.
Hamilton has been with Mercedes since 2013, during which spell he has claimed 62 wins and four titles, and is poised to add a fifth – and sixth overall – at this weekend’s US Grand Prix.
His current contract with Mercedes runs until the end of 2020, when he will be a few days shy of his 36th birthday.
On Thursday Formula 1 chiefs presented the new sporting, technical and financial regulations that will be implemented from the start of 2021.
“I mean I always love a challenge,” said Hamilton. “This team has shown that they are better prepared and in the best position to be able to react to rule changes, so I know the team is approaching the challenge in an exciting way.
“I think as drivers I think there were certain things we’ve heard, not necessarily all the decisions taken where what we thought was best for example the cars are heavier and will get slower.
“But I think it’s going to be an interesting time. I’m planning to be here so naturally at some point next year my mindset will be to switch into 2021 and wanting to be the pioneer in that era.”
When pressed on his own future, Hamilton said: “Nothing is set in stone for the future but I’m definitely enjoying what I’m doing.
“I don’t see any reason to stop as I love what I do.
“When there is a challenge, a whole new massive change in the regulations, that’s a huge change for me as a driver to help use the skills I’ve learned over the years to help navigate and steer the team in the right direction and going back to having those consistent seasons and punching out performances.
“The thing I’m most proud of is my consistency, it’s ultimately tallying up the team points through the year.
“I don’t see myself going anywhere else. I love being here at Mercedes, I love being part of the brand, I love being part of the history.
“I’ve been with Mercedes since I was 13, so the idea of continuing on with them even beyond Formula 1, probably heavily involved with [parent company] Daimler, is quite attractive or me. So let’s see how that works.”
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