Lewis Hamilton: F1 ace reveals admiration for 'hardcore' MotoGP but rules out switch to bikes

Formula 1 star Lewis Hamilton has called MotoGP ‘more hardcore’ thanks to the sheer danger and risk the riders take each time they get on a bike, and has ruled out a switch to the sport in the future.

Hamilton is a well-known fan of the two-wheel premier motorsport class and you only need to look back at Marc Marquez’s massive high-side at the Indonesian GP weekend last time out for a reminder of just how close the riders are to a huge moment in a matter of seconds.

F1, of course, carries its fair share of danger and risk itself but huge strides have been made in terms of safety in the sport – highlighted by Mick Schumacher being unmarked in his big crash last weekend at the Saudi Arabian GP – and ultimately in a car you are more protected and 200mph than on a bike at the same speed.

Speaking to IWC, too, Hamilton couldn’t hide how impressed he is with the riders’ bravery, and also said he finds it unlikely he’ll switch from F1 to MotoGP:

“I think MotoGP is more hardcore. These guys don’t have seatbelts.

“When they have a crash, it is big. It is hard for them to improve safety.

“The fear factor for them is always there, and has been there for years.

“Our sport is getting safer and safer. 

“We watch [MotoGP] in complete shock. It is nerve-wracking.

“I have always loved bikes. When I was younger I wanted to race bikes, not cars.

“But my dad wouldn’t let me race bikes – he said they were too dangerous!

“He got me into four wheels rather than two.

“It was the right choice because if I was racing during the time Vale was there, I wouldn’t have been so successful.

“Since I have been in Formula 1, I have a super-bike and I like to do some track days. It is fascinating. It gives a different perspective.

“It’s easier to come from