Two-time Formula 1 World Champion Mika Hakkinen believes that Lewis Hamilton’s head is no longer completely focused on racing.
Hamilton is currently in his 17th year of Formula 1 competition and holds the most successful career of any driver.
The Briton has scored more wins, podiums and pole positions than any other driver in F1 history, while he is also tied with Michael Schumacher on seven titles.
However, his Mercedes squad has been uncompetitive over the last 18 months, leading to suggestions that Hamilton could seek a new challenge.
Rumours of a switch to Ferrari for 2024 began to surface earlier this year – however Hakkinen doesn’t see the 38-year-old making the move to the Italian squad.
“Lewis Hamilton joining Ferrari would be a surprise,” Hakkinen told Unibet. “Does money motivate drivers?
“I know Lewis’ head is not 100 per cent in racing anymore. It’s completely normal. But does money motivate?
“Of course it does, but there are many risks involved. I think it’s highly unlikely he will join Ferrari.
“I always say that when people get older, the order of your thoughts change. Your priorities in life change.
“Formula 1 just won’t be the most important thing anymore. It wouldn’t surprise me when the competition gets tougher and young drivers emerge, what George Russell is doing with Lewis at the moment, result-wise, it’s not an easy situation.
“Does Lewis have enough energy to wake up every morning, give his everything and bring results so that he can beat his team-mate? Is that the right future for him?”
Hamilton shut down the rumours of a Ferrari switch, stating last month that he was close to penning an extension with Mercedes.
His current deal with the Brackley-based squad expires at the end of the 2023 campaign.
