© Sebastian Kawka for Mercedes-Benz Grand Prix ltd.
Stefano Domenicali says Lewis Hamilton is doing a lot for Formula 1 “on the sporting side in terms of image” and “in other areas which were not really specifically related to F1”.
With 36-year-old Lewis Hamilton currently on a one-year contract with Mercedes, the media is naturally speculating about his retirement.
Recently Lewis indicated that he plans on being on the grid next year, and F1 CEO Stefano Domencali is naturally happy the seven-time champion will stay. However, he believes Formula 1 is in a good position even if Hamilton decides to retire.
“F1 is solid, robust, and whatever Lewis’ decision will be, F1 will react and move forward,” the Italian said.
“The good news is that if Lewis, as we all hope, will stay, he will have an incredible season in front of him with the new cars, with a new challenge and this may be very interesting for him.
“If he decides a different way around, the good news is that in F1 we have so many good drivers today that at least the challenge, the chances, will be even stronger.
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“Therefore, whatever Lewis’ decision will be, we will respect it but F1 is really solid and strong.”
Still, Domenicali is aware of the value Lewis brings to the sport.
“For sure Lewis is a great asset. He is doing an incredible job on the sporting side in terms of image. He was able to grow F1 in other areas which were not really specifically related to F1.
“But F1 itself is strong, and drivers and champions are always in a place where one day they may retire.
“I don’t know what Lewis is doing, we are talking with him, but of course, now he’s focused on his actual season.
“He is fully boosted to make sure that he’ll be the only driver that is going to win eight titles in the history of F1,” concluded F1’s CEO.
