SPORTS
Hamilton admits to dilemma over staying in Formula 1
Baku, November 30, AZERTAC
Lewis Hamilton has admitted he is battling a personal dilemma over his future in Formula 1, because he wants to continue but he doesn't want to keep missing out on other life experiences, according to motorsport.com.
The world champion's contract with Mercedes runs out at the end of next season, and it is expected that discussions for a new two-year contract will begin over the next few weeks.
But while it is thought highly likely Hamilton and Mercedes will agree terms, the Briton confesses that part of him wants to start exploring other opportunities away from the race track.
"It's like the weather. It's about trying to find the balance," said Hamilton during an interview with selected media about his mindset regarding his future.
"I've currently got another year with the team and I do want to continue. But, I'm at that point where there's that question."
Hamilton is attracted to doing things with life well away from the race track, but is conflicted because he knows that if he does quit F1, he is going to miss it.
"You can't come back to F1. Whatever happens, you are gonna miss it. If it's next year, if it's five years from now, you're gonna miss it when you finish.
"There's a saying you stay as long as you can – I'm not quite sure about that exactly, but there is a lot of life left beyond it. There are things that I've missed in life.
"I was talking to my best friend the other day about things that I do envy or look forward to, like living in one place, getting a routine, that's my gym, I have game night with my friends here, my family.
"Each year I stay in the sport, I delay those things. But from 40 onwards there's so much time for it."