I don't hold grudges, I move forward - Hamilton won't allow controversy to define F1 career

 • Lewis Hamilton spoke candidly about the controversial season-end at the new Mercedes car launch.  • He explained his radio silence was because he just needed to unplug and switch off. • Hamilton also said he has absolutely nothing against Max Verstappen.  • For motoring news, go to Wheels24.

But a defiant Hamilton – back in the public spotlight two months and six days after the contentious Abu Dhabi Grand Prix – also demanded that the FIA must be held to account to ensure what happened to him is never repeated.

Hamilton, the most decorated driver in the sport's history, was on course to win a record-breaking eighth world championship before race director Michael Masi seemingly broke the rules to allow Max Verstappen the chance to take the title following a late safety car.

The FIA appeared to accept that a mistake was made when Masi was eventually dismissed from his position on Thursday.

The sporting federation also announced a complete overhaul of race control while its inquiry into the final laps in Abu Dhabi is ongoing.

"At the end of every season, the question I ask myself is whether I am willing to commit the time and effort that it takes to be a world champion," said Hamilton, 37.

"A lot of people underestimate what it takes to be a world champion. Do I want to sacrifice the time? Can I punch at the weight I have been punching?

"I put faith and trust alongside each other, and trust can be lost in a blink of an eye or a flick of a finger.

"But I am a determined person, and I like to think to myself that while moments like this might define other people's careers, I will refuse to let it define mine.

"And although we cannot change the past – and nothing will ever change how it felt at the time – it is good to see the FIA