Christian Horner has pleaded with Lewis Hamilton to continue racing.
Since the interview he gave to Jenson Button in the immediate aftermath of last month’s controversial Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the Briton has been silent in the media and across all social platforms.
Due to the manner in which he was denied a record eighth F1 world title as well as his silence, many fear the icon may walk away from the sport.
Less than two months out from the start of the 2022 season in Bahrain, speculation continues to grow surrounding Hamilton’s future.
But Horner, whose driver Max Verstappen benefited from controversial decisions in the closing stages of the 2021 season finale, hopes their biggest rival will line up on the grid this year.
"I certainly hope Lewis will be around this year," Horner said in an interview with Wion. "He’s still driving at an incredible level, the two drivers last year were in a league of their own.
"But ultimately, it’s his choice, it’s his career, it’s his decision, so I’m sure he will decide what’s best for him, what he wants to do, and that’s none of our business."
Horner has also revealed he spoke to Hamilton’s father, Anthony, after the chaos at the Yas Marina Circuit.
“Yes look, at the end of the day we’re a sport, we’re not saving lives,” he said. “It’s hard and competitive, but there has to be a respect at the end of it.
“It’s been a long, hard, tough year, last season and that’s why I went to see Toto following the end of the race.
“Unfortunately he wasn’t about, but I did manage to speak with Lewis and his father.”
During an appearance on Good Morning Britain this week, 2009 world champion Jenson Button said he thinks his former teammate will race next season.
“I was the only person to interview Lewis after the last race. The whole world heard me interview so I don't have the inside scoop," he said.
"I do think he will be racing, he wants to win that eighth title and be the most decorated F1 driver in F1 history and he will do that.”
Next month F1 testing is set to begin, with Mercedes due to unveil their model for the 2022 campaign on February 18, while Red Bull have yet to submit a date.
