Hamilton opens up on 'mental issues - instabilities' in F1

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Five-time world champion Lewis Hamilton admits that his quest for success in F1 hasn't been without its moments of mental suffering for the Brit.

Speaking to US talk show star David Letterman in an episode of the second season of the Netflix series My Next Guest Needs No Introduction, Hamilton opened up on the huge mental strains associated with fighting for the world title.

The Mercedes driver explained how dealing with the "massive comedowns" was crucial to sustaining success.

"It’s a hard, hard year," said Hamilton, speaking with Letterman back in February before the 2019 season got underway.

"Mentally you have these massive highs, wins and success, but then you have these massive comedowns.

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"[It’s] something I’ve never really spoken about but you often do suffer from mental issues – instabilities – and keeping yourself together when you hit rock bottom, which you do as an athlete.

"If you’re lucky you can find strength at rock bottom. It’s about how you get up, not how you fall."

Hamilton's conversation with Letterman also led the Brit to reveal that he was no where near retiring from the sport, insisting his drive and fire were intact.

"Michael retired when he was 38. I’m 33. In my mind I can definitely do five years," said Hamilton wjho is contracted to Mercedes until the end of 2020.

"I am ridiculously determined to win.

"What really drives me, and I feel that somewhat the people I race against may lack, is that fire.

"I’ve got this opportunity. I could easily let go of it right now but I feel like I would be squandering it if I didn’t continue to improve, grow and push.

"I’ve got to keep going for as long as I can basically - until I’m not enjoying it."

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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.