Lewis Hamilton has dismissed growing speculation about his future at Scuderia Ferrari, jokingly taking aim at those he considers are “trying to retire” him.
The seven-time world champion has largely seen his immediate future in the crosshairs of speculation, with talks surrounding the possibility of the Ferrari outfit replacing him or even him walking away from the sport, amid his challenging stint with the Maranello outfit.
However, speaking at the Canadian Grand Prix press conference on Thursday, the Briton shut down the speculation when asked if he had clarity over his plans for the 2027 season. “Yeah, I’m still in contract, so everything is 100% clear to me,” Hamilton responded.
Doubling down on his claim, the 41-year-old added he remains focused and highly motivated regarding his quest for success with the Ferrari outfit. “I’m still focused, I’m still motivated, I still love what I do with all my heart. I’m going to be here for quite some time, so get used to it,” he added.
Hamilton gives cheeky response to retirement talks
The former Mercedes driver, further buttressing his continuity at Ferrari and in Formula 1, continued with a cheeky response to individuals fuelling speculation over his possible exit from F1.
“There are a lot of people who are trying to retire me, and that’s not even on my thoughts. I’m already thinking of what will be next and planning for the next five years. But yeah, I still plan to be here for some time,” he concluded.
Talks about the possibility of Hamilton walking away from the sport have gradually resurfaced, particularly after his dip in form in the aftermath of his podium at the Chinese Grand Prix. Former Williams driver Ralf Schumacher, in his assessment of the Brit, identified who Ferrari should sign as a potential cost-effective replacement for Hamilton.
