Hamilton not dismissing 'using his skills' in Formula E!

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Lewis Hamilton isn't dismissing an electric future after Formula 1, the five-time world champion admitting that Formula E is "an area" where he could apply his skills.

Hamilton is contracted to race for Mercedes in Formula 1 until the end of 2020, but his plans beyond that term have yet to be defined, with options likely dependent on his level of motivation or how he may view the sport's future in light of the 2021 regulations.

Speaking at Silverstone this weekend, where Mercedes is celebrating its 125 years in motorsport, Hamilton said he could put Formula E on his list of alternatives at some point down the road.

Hamilton focused on ironing out one big weakness

"That is something I have kind of been debating," the reigning world champion told The Sun.

"Up until now it has always been about Formula One.

"Being that I have been racing since I was eight years old, I am going to have massive withdrawal symptoms, like every driver has when they stop racing, when Formula One stops for me.

"There are other things to do. I guess there are other series I could do.

"Fernando Alonso is doing Indycar and you see Kimi Raikkonen still pushing the boundaries."

©Mercedes

Hamilton referred to fellow Mercedes-AMG driver Gary Paffett's switch from the DTM to Formula E as a move he was watching as he mulls his next potential career choice in motorsport.

"I actually grew up in the same era as Gary Paffett," said the 34-year-old.

"He is a little bit older than me and he is now racing in Formula E and that is now going to be the future.

"So, who knows, in the future that’s maybe an area where I can use my skills but as you get older, it is more challenging to find the motivation to stay focused and you have to find something you love.

"I am pretty sure I will always love cars, and for now I am going to try and stay in Formula One, so long as I stay focused and fit, I will carry on driving the best that I can."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.