Moments after reports claim McLaren's Lewis Hamilton is set to replace Michael Schumacher next season at Mercedes, the driver admits uncertainty over Season 2013
Lewis Hamilton said he had still not made a decision over his Formula One future and insisted he was only focusing on securing a strong result at this weekend’s Italian GP.
The McLaren driver’s future was the main talking point in the Monza paddock yesterday following claims from former team boss Eddie Jordan that he was close to sealing a deal with rival team Mercedes.
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McLaren’s Lewis Hamilton during a press conference at the Autodromo Nazionale Circuit in Monza ahead yesterday. Pic/AFP
However, the Englishman, whose contract with the Woking-based outfit expires at the end of the 2012 season, suggested McLaren’s performance during the next eight races would have some bearing on his decision.
“I want to win,” he said. “You always want to win every year you can compete. That’s why us drivers exist and why teams exist. It’s just making sure you’re in the right place.”
Hamilton added that he had been encouraged by the team’s recent progress and insisted his main focus for the time being was on performing well in the next few races.
He said: “I drive for McLaren. We won the last two races and hopefully we’ll have another great weekend ahead of us. That is what we need to focus on. I don’t have a deadline (to decide), but obviously before next season would be useful. I am in a great position.
“I just need to focus on the preparations for these races, and there is a long way to go before the end of season.
“Jenson showed and I showed in the race before that there is great potential in our car and our team, so that is what I need to focus on most.”
Mercedes boss Ross Brawn also claimed there was no truth to the rumour and insisted the team were still a long way off making a decision.
“We don’t comment on speculation I am afraid,” he said. “When we make our driver decision, you will be the first to hear about it but it is still some way off.
“Coming to the conclusion on our drivers will take some time still. When it is decided we will be happy to share it with you, but we still have some way to go.”
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