Lewis Hamilton: I think Sebastian Vettel definitely had a huge role to play in that

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After Sebastian Vettel decided to retire, Lewis Hamilton was one of the first to react; "Ultimately I think that in general we often stand on the shoulders of greats from the past, whether it's in this sport or other sports," Hamilton said, as quoted by motorsport.

"I really hope he inspires the next generation. Whether it's this one or the younger generation that will be coming through, to be more confident in utilising their platform, realising it's not just about them and their car.

"It's about something far, far bigger than being here. I really hope we see more people like him. "But, I can't guarantee that, because I think he's rare." "We're hoping that our work leads it to a better place," Hamilton said.

Lewis Hamilton on Sebastian Vettel

Lewis Hamilton believes that Vettel will be a role model for many generations to come. This is exactly his goal, to be an idol to those who will succeed them in F1 with his work and effort.

"That's the work that I've tried to do, what Seb's been trying to do here, really igniting the fire of sparking conversations, to leave the place a better sport than it was when we found it. "I think Seb has definitely had a huge role to play in that and there's still a lot of work to do." There is also a lot of talk about the next job that Vettel could have.

Various options are mentioned, but only the German at this moment knows what he wants and whether this will mean the end of everything. "I don't know if Seb is going to do more work, continue on the work in the background with the sport or not.

I doubt he'll come back and do commentary, but you can never say never! "But, yeah, I do hope it's in a better place. It would've been an awful waste of time if not."