Hamilton - Winning eighth F1 title 'not the deciding factor' over future

Lewis Hamilton has insisted that failing to win a record-breaking eighth title this year will not determine his Formula 1 future.

On the day Mercedes launched its new car for this season, the W12, Hamilton has revealed the reason for only signing a one-year with the team was to at least provide himself with options should he decide to leave the sport.

"I’m in a fortunate position where I have achieved most of the stuff I have wanted to achieve up until this point so there is no real need really to plan too far ahead into the future," said Hamilton.

"I think we are living in quite an unusual period of time in life and I just wanted one year. Then we can talk about if we do more and keep adding it one [year at a time] if we have to.”

After equalling Michael Schumacher's record of seven world titles last season, the obvious goal for Hamilton is to continue until he holds the outright record on his own.

But the 36-year-old maintains that is not the motivating factor for him continuing into next season and beyond.

"A real important decision in my mind is that I don't want that to be the deciding factor," added Hamilton.

"I got into racing because I loved racing, and I think that's got to be at the core of what I do.

"If all you are going for are accolades and titles, I feel like I could potentially lose my way.

"Of course, it's the ultimate dream but I don't think it's necessarily going to be the deciding factor on whether I stay or keep going.

"I think it's more about when I put the helmet on and I still have that smile when I leave the garage. It's going back to 'Do you enjoy it?'

"Last year was a real tough one for everyone, including me, but I think there were some real impactful moments.

"Will that be the case this year? Will I enjoy it as much, we will see? I'm excited currently, so I'm sure I will."

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