“It’s time for him to resign,” commented the 83-year-old in June 2022. “He’s got music, he’s got culture, he loves clothing and the rag trade would be absolutely suitable for him. I’m sure he’ll be very successful because he’s been earning a huge amount of money — rightfully so because he’s been the best of his time.”
Hamilton may no longer have the same anger inside him ahead of 2023, which is once again the final year left to run on his current deal with Mercedes. Team principal Toto Wolff recently confirmed contract talks with the Silver Arrows star is on his to-do list during this off-season, though it’s understood negotiations are still yet to get underway.
The team in Brackley have a job on their hands in constructing a car capable of closing the gap on Red Bull, particularly after Verstappen sealed his second straight title with four races to spare in 2022. Hamilton deserves his praise after returning for the fight following a frustrating end to 2021, though rivals may find that motivation makes him an even more dangerous prospect in what could potentially be his final F1 campaign.
