FIA president: 'Did you hear Hamilton say he wants to retire?'

Lewis Hamilton has yet to make a move following his loss of the world title in Abu Dhabi. New FIA boss Mohammed Ben Sulayem is confident the seven-time world champion will return to the grid in 2022.

Hamilton not present at gala

Hamilton's disappointment after losing his eighth world title in the final round of the season is strong. The Briton has completely withdrawn from social media and has not been heard from since the loss.

Speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport the FIA president says he understands Hamilton's choice not to attend the FIA awards gala at the end of the season. Ben Sulayem hopes to still be able to have a conversation with Hamilton, as for missing the gala, the Briton still has a penalty hanging over his head.

No retirement yet for Hamilton

Ben Sulayem believes Hamilton will be at the start in Bahrain of the first race of 2022 despite the disappointment. "Have you heard Lewis say he wants to retire? No. I'm sure he'll be there, he's a fundamental part of our sport."