Lewis Hamilton says 2019 achievements mean more for off-track success

Lewis Hamilton

Hamilton says 2019 achievements mean more for off-track success

Another successful year in the books.

Matthew Scott

Wednesday 27 November 2019 14:30

Lewis Hamilton says he has taken a greater sense of satisfaction from the 2019 season as a result of his Formula 1 success being augmented by achievements off the track.

Hamilton has wrapped up a sixth world title, moving into all-time second place on F1's all-time list.

Only Michael Schumacher stands ahead of Hamilton statistically, and the Briton has already begun to take records from the German great.

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But Hamilton puts just as much stock into his extra-curricular accomplishments as his racing record.

"Nelson Mandela said to me he was still learning at 90," Hamilton told PA Sport. "I'm always searching for perfection, and trying to improve.

"Each year, I write down a list of things I want to achieve and if there are 10 I might get through two or three of those.

"This year, I have done more; winning the world title, designing a successful clothing range, and another one has been designing eyewear, so each year I am managing to increase my capacity, and learning as much as possible."

Mercedes have given Hamilton a greater freedom in recent years to pursue his passions away from racing, but the man himself does not wish to turn back the clock in an attempt to gain more autonomy on his early career.

"For everyone there are certain sacrifices and choices you have to make," he said.

"When you win a world championship, it does feel incredibly rewarding because of the effort you have put in, and there are things you could have done that you didn't do in the hope that it will position yourself better.

"It really is about finding the right balance. I wouldn't change my life. I wouldn't go back and change any of the sacrifices that I have made. I wouldn't change anything. Racing has given my life purpose."