Button backs Hamilton to race on and win eighth F1 title in 2022

Uncertainty has been cast over Hamilton’s future in F1 ever since he lost the 2021 world championship to Red Bull’s Max Verstappen in last season’s  controversial finale in Abu Dhabi. 

The Mercedes driver is said to be considering whether to return this season amid an ongoing FIA inquiry into the handling of a late Safety Car period that dramatically swung the race and title battle in favour of Verstappen. 

Hamilton has remained silence on the matter ever since the December 12 race and has not posted on any of his social media accounts. 

Speaking in an appearance on British television show Good Morning Britain on Wednesday, Button said he believes Hamilton will be back to win record-breaking eighth drivers' crown in 2022.

“I really do hope he'll be racing," he said. “I think he will be racing and he wants to win that eighth title to be the most decorated Formula 1 driver in F1 history. And he will do that. I really do think so.”

Despite the controversial surrounding the Abu Dhabi finale, 2009 world champion Button still believes F1 is in a strong place heading into a new era following a major regulation change for 2022. 

“Controversial end to the season, but I think you've got to look at the season as a whole,” he added. 

“F1 is in an amazing place, two fantastic drivers going at it every weekend. And I think everyone's excited about the new season. New regulations, and it's all about the development of these cars through the year."