Lewis Hamilton's 'disillusionment' stems from limited years remaining in F1, according to Jack Plooij

Dutch TV reporter Jack Plooij believes Lewis Hamilton’s disillusioned frame of mind was related to his shelf-life as a racing driver in the sport.

Speaking to Motorsport Network, the Dutchman claimed that it will take a few more years for the Briton to prove he is better than Michael Schumacher. This, in turn, runs contrary to the years left in the Briton's career, inviting his discontent.

Shedding light on Hamilton's feelings after the 2021 season, Plooij said:

“Lewis’ biggest disillusionment might have been that he might only have one, but two, three or four more years to go. That may have been a serious consideration for him, because to continue for another four years? That would probably have been his doubt.”

While Hamilton’s primary career goal was to beat Schumacher's record by securing an eighth title, Plooij did not think it was possible soon, given the regulation changes.

Looking ahead at the Briton’s future in the sport, the Ziggo TV reporter said:

“Perhaps he will now look at it year after year. And what is George Russell going to do next to him? Of course he has to think about that for a while. I am convinced that in the coming years he wants to show once again that he is better than one Mr. Schumacher in terms of world titles.”

Hamilton recently turned 37 and is now the second-most senior driver on the grid. Consequently, his future in the sport, in terms of the number of years he could continue, has been a serious contemplation zone for him, according to Plooij.

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Lewis Hamilton will have to be patient for his eighth title, according to Dutch TV reporter

Jack Plooij believes the Briton might require patience to clinch that elusive eighth title until Mercedes adapt to the new regulations.

Explaining the Brackley-based team's development curve to provide Lewis Hamilton with a competitive car, the TV presenter said:

“Of course it may not happen immediately because they [Mercedes] may perhaps not get it quite right with the development of the new car. But knowing Mercedes, they will certainly get over that.”

Meanwhile, Lewis Hamilton took a break from social media after a heartbreaking end to his 2021 title campaign. This led to a lot of speculation about his future in the sport.

He has since returned to social media, however, and has been confirmed to be driving in the 2022 F1 season by his team on their social media handles. The Briton will be making his first media appearance at the launch of Mercedes' 2022 F1 car on February 18.