After the emotional victory in Italy in the previous GP, Hamilton let slip that he did not know where he would be next year. He might still see himself at Mercedes, but there were no guarantees. And he also had interests outside of F1.
Team boss Toto Wolff was there like the chickens to put those words into perspective. The Austrian knows them by the emotions and the fatigue.
And today in Istanbul, Hamilton himself left no doubt whatsoever: “I want to continue with Mercedes”, said the man who can conquer a 7th world title on Sunday. He said there are only a few details to be finalized before extending his contract.
“I would like to help the team in its quest for innovation,” he said. “They want to make their cars greener and more electric and I want to help with that.”
“We’re talking about it right now and I don’t feel like I’m ready to quit. I love racing and that’s not going to change any time soon.”
–
If Hamilton captures his 7th world title, he will match Michael Schumacher’s record. “I would be extremely proud to be on par with such an icon.” Earlier this season, he already improved the German’s record number of GP victories. Schumacher counted 91, Hamilton is now at 93.
For Hamilton, that title fits in a broader picture after a difficult year, not for him, but for a lot of people. “It’s about the fight for equality. Progress has been made this year and I think it’s important that people – and not just the children – get the message that they should dream bigger than they think they can. tell them not to go for it. “
–
