Lewis Hamilton spent a part of the evening before the launch of his new Mercedes talking to Brad Pitt about a movie script. As you do.
But if anyone thinks Hamilton’s drive and determination might be diminishing as he heads into his SEVENTEENTH season of Formula One, they were not listening to the seven-times world champion at the unveiling of the all-black W14.
Hamilton, 38, insists he has NEVER been more motivated as he aims for a record-breaking eighth title.
Preparing for his 11th campaign with Mercedes, he said: “I feel the same passion and excitement as I did in my first season
“I can’t remember the last time I felt as excited to get into the car. I feel reinvigorated, really excited … it's like Christmas.
“Physically, I feel great - I’ve very much focused on trying to raise the bar in that area. I was training on Christmas Day - I was running up the mountains.
“And I continue to be very critical of myself and how I can evolve as a driver. I have spent more time with engineers and more simulator-running than I have ever done.”
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff says he has never seen his number one man so refreshed and, as the driver and Mercedes negotiate a new contract, believes Hamilton can drive on for a long time.
“If you look at how top athletes in the world push the boundaries, the age, 38, plays no role in this next contract,” said Wolff. “I am thinking about Tom Brady - still on the pitch at 44, 45.
“We have had a first chat (with Lewis about the contract) … and we will find the right time.”
Hamiton’s current £40million-a-year deal expires at the end of this year but it was clear at the Silverstone launch event that both parties feel an extension is a formality.
Hamilton said: “It’s an exciting time for the team and I don’t plan on being anywhere else. I’ve been here (at Mercedes) a long time. It’s the combined energy of all the individuals in the team.
“I love being part of a team that is working towards a common goal. I continue to love racing. I think that is never going to change as it is part of my DNA.”
There has been a suggestion that a new deal might also incorporate a long-term role with one of Mercedes’ main partners, Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS.
It is clear Hamilton has developed a close relationship with Ratcliffe and has even been chatting to the billionaire about his possible purchase of Manchester United.
Hamilton said: “I am very close with Jim so I am aware of where is at (with United).
“We talk a lot about football as he is very passionate about it. We have great discussions about what his team is doing, we talk about how Arsenal is playing.
“Obviously he is from Manchester so that is his dream home …where he comes from. But there is no further information I can give you on that.”
And right now, despite the movie talk with Brad and the United chat with the richest Brit, Hamilton’s sole focus is on putting a dismal 2022 behind him and clinching that record eighth title.
“It’s going to be a challenge,” he said. “But that is what I live for.”
