Hamilton denies considering 2013 sabbatical
'I love racing, so there is no need to stop' - Hamilton
Mar.22 (GMM) Lewis Hamilton has denied Bernie Ecclestone's claim that he would have preferred a sabbatical in 2013 rather than stay at McLaren.
Referring to the 2008 world champion's soured relationship with McLaren as he considered a move to Mercedes last year, Ecclestone said: "Lewis told me that he would have rather taken a year off.
"In fairness to Lewis, he didn't leave McLaren over money," Ecclestone told business journalist Christian Sylt.
"I don't think I would leave this sport unless I didn't have a good feeling about it, or a smile and an energy when I got in the car. I love racing, so there is no need to stop.
"I am happy -- I think Bernie has a better memory than me," he is quoted by the Telegraph.
Given McLaren's early crisis in 2013, many now see Hamilton's move to Mercedes as inspired.
But although outwardly happy with his new challenge, team and 2013 car, Hamilton said he does not feel quite ready to win races or push for the title.
"I don't feel 100 per cent yet, and I think that showed in practice in Australia in the wet," he said.
As for the weekend's challenge at Sepang, the Briton admitted: "I don't think I am quick here.
"Fernando (Alonso) beat me on this circuit in 2007, in only my second Grand Prix, and since then I have not had a spectacular race here."
Share Or Save This Story
The season is still very long - Rosberg
Jules Bianchi's father speaks of family's continued hopes
Sauber under no illusions about constructors' position
Lewis Hamilton welcomes new puppy Halo during F1 summer break
Rachel Brookes opens up on emotional Lewis Hamilton farewell after Sky Sports F1 exit
Why Charles Leclerc’s battle of the brakes has left him trailing Lewis Hamilton
“I went back to the car and cried” – Esteban Ocon opens up about his unexpected year on F1 sidelines
McLaren "ready to challenge" Mercedes after upgrade, says Sky F1 commentator
The shocking aspect to Kimi Antonelli's rapid F1 title-contending transformation
IMSA at Road America lap-by-lap commentary and race updates
Wayne Taylor Racing ends IMSA win drought in chaotic Road America finish
Oliver Bearman responds to Aston Martin rumours with clear Ferrari message
IMSA Road America: Julien Andlauer leads Porsche 1-2 at halfway
The deep and lasting significance of the McLaren MP4/4’s forgotten older brother
You Ask The Questions: Esteban Ocon
Top 10 McLaren F1 cars ranked: MCL39, M23, MP4/4 and more
Why progress 'won't satisfy' Red Bull until it can give Max Verstappen a winning car
Subscribe and access Motorsport.com with your ad-blocker.
From Formula 1 to MotoGP we report straight from the paddock because we love our sport, just like you. In order to keep delivering our expert journalism, our website uses advertising. Still, we want to give you the opportunity to enjoy an ad-free and tracker-free website and to continue using your adblocker.
Top Comments