Lewis Hamilton leaving F1 would be 'very damaging' - 'Hard to see how FIA would recover'

Lewis Hamilton quitting F1 ahead of the 2022 season opener would be "very damaging" for the sport, according to ex-driver turned pundit Karun Chandhok. He has warned it would be "quite hard" to see how the FIA recover from the scandal if the seven-time champion was to walk away. Rumours around Hamilton's return have circulated since he missed out on the title in dramatic circumstances at December's Abu Dhabi finale.

Hamilton was in clear control of the race before a late safety car allowed rival Max Verstappen to close up on fresh tyres with one lap to go.

Verstappen then overtook Hamilton just five corners into the final lap to claim his first world title.

Speaking to Express Sport, Chandhok said: "Ultimately only he knows what's going on in his head.

"In my opinion, I think it would be very very damaging for the sport if he walked away.

READ MORE: FIA confirm Masi may be sacked after Hamilton and Mercedes complaints

"Essentially he would be walking away because he didn't think the sport was fair or credibly run.

"That would be extremely damaging for the reputation of the sport and the FIA.

"For the sake of the sport, I hope he doesn't walk away at this point.

"Honestly, if that did happen, it's quite hard to see how the FIA would recover from that very quickly to be honest.

DON'T MISS

Lewis Hamilton's retirement threat branded 'totally irrelevant'

Hamilton fired Russell warning as Mercedes duo prepare for 2022

Hamilton splashes on new investment but remains silent on future

"It's the sport's biggest star basically questioning their integrity.

"So I hope that doesn't happen."

Rumours of his retirement were further sparked as Mercedes and Hamilton both boycotted the end of year FIA prize giving gala in Paris.