“But I’m sure over the summer break, when we have the summer break, it
would be nice to get something in place.
“That would be a time when we can be more relaxed and make the most
sensible decision for the future.”
All roads appear to lead to another contract with McLaren, bearing in mind
Mark Webber last week committed himself to Red Bull for 2013.
It is highly unlikely Ferrari’s Fernando Alonso would wish to be partnered by
Hamilton again after their destructive relationship at McLaren in 2007,
although they are much more amicable towards one another these days.
With Mercedes and Michael Schumacher poised to remain together for another
year, it leaves Lotus as an unlikely long-shot should Hamilton opt to leave
McLaren.
Given the on-track mistakes made by the team he has endured this year that
have cost him a raft of points, Hamilton knows it would be wrong to focus on
that when it comes to assessing his future.
Hamilton added: “To be honest, you have to base your decisions on much,
much longer than such a short period of time.
“Half a year cannot decide six years of partnership, or actually 13 years
of partnership.
“I’ve been with them since I was 13, so it’s 14 years, so it’s much more
than these small details. It’s a much, much bigger picture.”
Hamilton, with just one world title to his name, appreciates his next contract
is crucial as it will likely take him into his 30s.
“You know, I want to win,” said Hamilton.
“I’m not that young any more, so I want to make sure whatever I do, I
make the right decision so I can maximise my career.
“I just need to make sure I’m winning. That’s what I exist for, what I
train and work for every day.”