David Coulthard believes Lewis Hamilton WILL return to Formula One next season

David Coulthard believes that Lewis Hamilton will not call an end to his Formula One career after his world championship disappointment, with the pundit insisting that the Mercedes star’s commitment to the sport is ‘unquestionable’.

Hamilton, 36, is currently keeping a low profile after losing out to Red Bull’s Max Verstappen in controversial fashion in Abu Dhabi last weekend. 

Mercedes announced on Thursday that they would not pursue an appeal against the contentious use of a safety car in the final knockings of the race, which unquestionably helped hand Verstappen victory.

David Coulthard believes that Lewis Hamilton will return to Formula One next season

The Mercedes star lost out to Max Verstappen in controversial fashion in Abu Dhabi last week

Team boss Toto Wolff revealed that he and Hamilton are ‘disillusioned’ with the sport, adding: ‘I would very much hope that Lewis continues racing because he’s the greatest driver of all time.’

Those comments have led to concerns that Hamilton will retire from Formula One, but ex-Red Bull driver Coulthard is adamant that fans will see the 36-year-old back on track next season. 

‘Hamilton’s commitment is unquestionable,’ Coulthard told BBC Radio 5 Live. ‘He showed why he was a seven-time World Champion. He’s a phenomenon and he’s an incredible sportsperson.

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff cast doubt over Hamilton’s future, revealing that he is ‘disillusioned’

‘He’s already committed to another two years. He’s a team person, he’s committed to that team and he will be there next year trying to win an eighth world title.’

Coulthard added that, while Hamilton will be disappointed, the Mercedes star’s experience of overcoming adversity will help him bounce back next season. 

‘I think he’s got inner peace. He will clearly be disappointed, to say the least, but you’ve got to try and imagine putting yourself in his shoes – he’s a great racing driver, he’s won multiple championships and he’s overcome adversity in his racing career,’ he said.

Coulthard insists Hamilton’s commitment to the sport is ‘unquestionable’ and he will be back

‘This is just another of those moments that won’t dilute the many great moments in his career.

‘He’s a fantastic example to sportsmen and women out there on how to handle defeat.

‘He recognised the challenge of Verstappen and these are the moments he lives for. Yes, he would have wanted to win but he showed his brilliance again.’