Hamilton Hope His Seven Record Titles Inspire Young Generation To Dream Big

JAKARTA - Lewis Hamilton is only one step away from equaling seven world champions Michael Schumacher's record when Formula 1 arrives in Turkey this weekend.

The British racer said that if he succeeded in embracing it, this achievement was expected to be able to help inspire the younger generation to aspire to high aspirations and have big dreams.

The Mercedes racer could lock up his seventh title if he leaves the Istanbul Park Circuit by a margin of more than 78 points from his teammate, Valtteri Bottas, who are currently both 85 points away in the standings.

So what does it mean to equal Schumacher's record for Hamilton?

"That's a question that is often asked of me," Hamilton said as quoted by Antara on the official Formula 1 website ahead of the Turkish Grand Prix, Thursday.

"All that might seem more meaningful from the outside. I remember watching TV and watching Michael grab his seventh title and 'Wow!' But when you are involved in it, it is different.

"Matching an icon like Michael, I would be very proud of that, but I think it has a bigger message, hopefully, to people, not just kids but hopefully most kids because they are the future.

"You must dream bigger than you think you can dream, and don't let anyone say you can't do it."

Hamilton previously surpassed Schumacher's record after picking up his 92nd win at the 2020 Portuguese Grand Prix.

After winning the 93rd Grand Prix champion trophy at Imola, Hamilton is showing no signs of slacking off to add to his winning streak to become the most successful F1 racer of all time.

Hamilton has yet to pocket a contract extension with Mercedes for next year but said he would continue his partnership with the German factory team.

"We will continue to fight for more championships," he said.

"We will continue this to try and improve and continue to race and do what we do, and what we love to do."