Sir Lewis is suffering in silence after losing the title, but he will continue to race

Despite keeping his mouth closed since the dramatic defeat in Abu Dhabi, Lewis Hamilton will continue to race - at least that's what his team's directors believe. The seven-time Formula 1 champion has been keeping unusually quiet since the season-ending Grand Prix, which was interpreted by many as his disillusion with the sport.

The controversial defeat that saw Max Verstappen take the title off the Englishman could drive the 36-year-old ace away from racing. And former F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone told Blick that Lewis isn't coming back for the 2022 season.

"I don't know what is happening with Lewis Hamilton, but I don't think he's coming back. His disappointment is too big. And you can somehow understand it. Now it would be time to tackle his dream of becoming a fashion entrepreneur."

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But despite the rumours, Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff reminded the public that Hamilton has two more years of contract with the team, but that, above all, his heart is still very much in the sport – despite the current disappointment.

"I would very much hope that Lewis continues racing – because he is the greatest driver of all times. I think as a racer his heart will say he needs to continue."

In a bizarre action that may or may not have anything to do with Hamilton's future, he has unfollowed a number of accounts on Instagram. His account, which has over 26 million followers, gives his fans an insight into his life on and off track, where Hamilton posts photos with his team, celebrity friends and his dog, Roscoe. It is not yet known what the move could mean, yet it is not the first time Hamilton has taken to an unfollowing spree on the social media platform, having previously done so in 2019.