Lewis Hamilton isn’t ruling out leaving Mercedes and Formula One in general even after they resigned him for another year in a deal estimated to be worth up to £40million.
Hamilton will earn a reported £40million this season as he goes in search of an eighth world title that would move him clear of the record he currently holds with Michael Schumacher.
The 36-year-old already holds the record for the most wins (95), pole positions (98) and podium finishes (165) in F1.
In a statement, the racer said his glad to be back with Mercedes and can’t wait for March but didn’t address persistent rumors that this might be his last dance.
“I’m equally determined to continue the journey we started to make motorsport more diverse for future generations and I am grateful that Mercedes has been extremely supportive of my call to address this issue,” he said.
“I am excited to be heading into my ninth season with my Mercedes team-mates.
“I’m proud to say we are taking that effort further this year by launching a foundation dedicated to diversity and inclusion in the sport.
“I am inspired by all that we can build together and can’t wait to get back on the track in March.”