Hamilton admits Mercedes switch was a gamble

Lewis Hamilton was declared mad by everyone in 2012 when he decided to make the switch to Mercedes in 2013. In hindsight, Hamilton gambled well, but even he admits it was a risk.

In 2012 Hamilton had one world title to his name when he decided to leave McLaren, his only team in Formula one up until then, and join Mercedes who hadn't exactly pulled up any tress. However, 8 years later, the Brit is on the verge of equalling Michael Schumacher's record of seven World Championships.

''Yes, it was a gamble. However, I am proud of the decision I made then and it is an important lesson. In life you sometimes seek approval from others. Everyone told me to stay with McLaren, even my father. I listened to myself then. I had to do what I wanted to do and not what other people expect me to do,'' said Hamilton to Ziggo Sport.

"Everyone believes in something and I know there are always people who stop it, but I never do anything because I have to, but because I want to. I have a platform to draw attention to it and I try to denounce things that I think are important. I want to do positive things. I'm not here just to win races," concluded the six-time world champion.