Lewis Hamilton is having a Formula 1 season from hell in 2022, but despite that fact, the idea of retiring has not crossed his mind, as he see no reason why he should stop.
Instead of having another shot at the elusive eighth F1 Title, Hamilton is having to settle for a midfield stint this season, with Mercedes' 2022 car being below par.
Despite some promising signs of recovery in Barcelona, the team still remain way behind the frontrunners, Ferrari and Red Bull, as Hamilton hoped to have a competitive car for his home race in Silverstone.
Asked by Corriere Della Sera, how he deals with this season's challenges, Hamilton said: "Resilience is within each of us. Never give up. One time you fall, the next you get back up. Meditation helps me."
He also revealed the reason behind his faith in his team turning things around, saying: "I've been with these guys for ten years.
"I know how they work and the kind of culture: no trials, we win and lose together. They are highly motivated, they give their souls to bring us back to the top," the Briton explained.
Hamilton still believes an eighth Title is possible
The seven-time Champion was asked if he still believes in achieving Title number eight, he responded: "Of course I do.
"It's not just about records, about sports titles. I want to win to carry on all the work behind the scenes for equality. F1 is not what it used to be: we used to assemble garages, race and then go home.
"Now it is inspiring, helping to form opinions. And it's in good hands thanks to a great Italian," he said referring to Formula CEO Stefano Domenicali.
"Stefano is the engine of change," he claimed. "There is a need for open people like him, he understands everything and everyone."
Asked if he could still be racing at the age of 40, Hamilton said: "Tough question! Let's take this season: I probably won't win the title, but I feel the same pleasure in racing as when I started.
"Why should I stop? Maybe one day I won't be able to handle the pressure anymore, I'll be tired, but that day hasn't come yet," he insisted.
Hamilton is a Ferrari fan, but a Mercedes driver
Commenting on this year's battle between Ferrari and Red Bull, Hamilton pointed out: "Ferrari is stronger in qualifying and Red Bull in the race.
"But it changes with every race, and Ferrari has shown it can create a great car. And then Charles is very strong.
"You could see it," he went on. "And yet I'll add one thing: If I could sit together with the fans over there, I would support Charles.
"I'm a Ferrari fan," the Mercedes driver stated.
Asked - if he is such a Ferrari fan - why he won't consider ending his F1 career in Red, Hamilton said it is down to "Loyalty" and added: "Of course it would have been nice to race for Ferrari during my career, but things happen for specific reasons.
"Mercedes is my family, I will forever be a Mercedes driver, as Stirling Moss was," the 37-year-old concluded.
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