Talk of Lewis Hamilton retiring from Formula One has been filling the headlines since the bitter end to his 2021 season.
Hamilton was well on his way to clinching his eighth world title, before a late safety car period, followed by a last-minute decision by stewards, brought Max Verstappen into his rearview mirrors.
The Dutchman pitted for soft tyres in the hopes of one more lap of racing, while Mercedes were confident that the five lapped cars in between Hamilton and his closest competitor would ensure the win even on old tyres.
Race Director Micheal Masi then announced that the five cars between the pair could overtake the safety car to allow for a final lap shootout, much to the dismay of Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff.
Controversy has been rife online since then, and many seem to think Hamilton may hang his racing boots up before the 2022 season opener.
So here’s what the experts are saying on the subject:
Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff put the future of Hamilton’s career into doubt earlier this week, hinting that he could actually retire.
He said: “I would very much hope Lewis continues racing because he is the greatest driver of all time.
“As a racer his heart will say I need to continue because he’s at the peak of his game.
“But we have to overcome the pain that was caused upon him on Sunday. He is a man with clear values.”
He went on to say: “I think he knows pretty well how he feels about racing. That passion burns strongly.
“In a way the tough championship has ignited even more fun with us to fight, and next year looks really exciting.
“We talked about retirement and it’s always really important to have that flirt with retirement, but equally be in control of your own destiny.
Meanwhile, ex-racer David Coulthard said he has no doubt that Lewis Hamilton will return for next season despite his last-lap disappointment.
Speaking on BBC Radio Five Live, he said: “Hamilton’s commitment is unquestionable.
“He showed why he was a seven-time World Champion. He’s a phenomenon and he’s an incredible sportsperson.
“He’s already committed to another two years. He’s a team person, he’s committed to that team and he will be there next year trying to win an eighth world title.
“I think he’s got inner peace. He will clearly be disappointed, to say the least, but you’ve got to try and imagine putting yourself in his shoes – he’s a great racing driver, he’s won multiple championships and he’s overcome adversity in his racing career.
“This is just another of those moments that won’t dilute the many great moments in his career.
“He’s a fantastic example to sportsmen and women out there on how to handle defeat.
“He recognised the challenge of Verstappen and these are the moments he lives for. Yes, he would have wanted to win but he showed his brilliance again.”
As for the man who clinched the title from him, Verstappen addressed the rumours and said:
“Of course, I can understand that the first few days, after a race like that, you’re not happy.
“You should also understand this is racing and these things can happen to you.
“I think he should just look back at what he has achieved, and that should give him a lot of comfort and that drive to keep on going.
“He is still trying to challenge for that eighth title, and he can do that again next year, so I don’t see any reason why to give up or stop now.”
