Former Haas team principal Guenther Steiner has said that Lewis Hamilton should consider retirement from F1 if he no longer enjoys the sport. He said that Hamilton can run within the top in the coming years, perhaps he should think about retirement if he can't produce more pace out of himself.
Hamilton made a move to Ferrari this season, but could not make any impact and his decision has largely been criticized, considering the performance he delivered so far. With P4 as his best finish, he has struggled with Ferrari's speed and found it tough to fight with the dominating duo of McLaren.
Guenther Steiner, talking about age as a factor for Hamilton, highlighted that the 40-year-old is in great shape and can continue in F1. But he also suggested that he might begin slowing down on the track with Lewis's growing age, so perhaps he should take retirement if he does not enjoy racing.
"Age always plays a role," Steiner told web.de. "But he's in top shape. Sure, you don't get faster with age. But he can definitely ride at a good level for a few more years. But if you're no longer having the joy, if you notice you're just struggling, then it's no use. Then it's better to say: I tried it, it didn't work, and I'm quitting."
Many believe that Hamilton will show improvement despite his disappointing performance in the first half.
Domenicali offers public support
Amid the growing speculation and emotional fatigue, F1 President Stefano Domenicali stood firmly behind the British driver.
“Lewis is a jewel, he is an incredible athlete... he wants to achieve his eighth title, and he will triumph again,” Domenicali told Sky Sports F1. “Stay with Lewis, and he will do a great race after the summer break.”
As the sport heads into its mid-season break, Lewis Hamilton will look to regroup mentally and physically. With Charles Leclerc finishing fourth despite a chassis issue, there’s clear pace to unlock at Ferrari — but Hamilton’s ability to bounce back will likely define the tone of his second half of the season.