Lewis Hamilton has batted away speculation that Mercedes is planning ahead for the seven time world champion’s retirement. Rumours at Monza are strongly linking McLaren refugee Daniel Ricciardo, who seems unable to secure a race seat for 2023, with the reserve role at Mercedes for 2023. “The truth is I’m keeping every option open, not only for next year but for the future. When asked about Ricciardo’s reserve driver link, Hamilton said the 33-year-old is “far too talented” to have to effectively sit out next season. “For years we’ve been going around, up and down with stories of retirement for me, but I love what I’m doing and don’t plan on stopping anytime soon,” Hamilton, 37, said.

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