Lewis Hamilton has revealed that he’s been praying “all the time” for the people of the world to be “more compassionate and caring”, with so much unrest currently going on wherever you look.
It has been an extremely challenging few years for everyone, with the Coronavirus pandemic having initially changed so many people’s lives.
Formula 1 drivers are included with that, after the sport was halted moments before the 2020 season opener in Australia was about to begin.
The drivers and the teams were then travelling the world whilst following strict guidelines, with travel restrictions having been implemented.
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Of course, the world has finally, really reopened, with 2022 having offered the first sense of normality to most.
However, the conclusion of the pandemic has had a horrific effect on dramatic inflation across the world, with financial problems being experienced by companies, countries, and people.
2022 also saw the ignition of the current conflict in Eastern Europe, which is soon set to have gone on for a whole year.
Hamilton highlighted how “difficult” the last few years have been across the globe, but that 2023 represents a time to “keep fighting and unite even more”.
“I’m definitely excited for 2023,” Hamilton said in a Mercedes end-of-year Q&A.
“These last few years have been so difficult for so many around the world, so many people struggling with the war and many other things.
“I hope something kicks us all into gear to understand that we need to be more compassionate and caring to each other and I am praying for that all the time.
“A new year to be better, a new year to climb, keep fighting, and unite even more.”
In regard to Formula 1, Hamilton also added that 2023 is “another chance to fight for a world championship.”
Focusing on Formula 1, 2022 was very challenging for the 38-year-old, who endured the worst season of his F1 career.
Hamilton failed to claim either a pole position or a victory in 2022, whilst he also ended the season in his lowest ever position in the Drivers’ Championship.
Whilst the Stevenage-born driver doesn’t hide the fact that last year was “very hard” for him, he remains “incredibly grateful” for the challenges he faced, with him having come out of it as a better, stronger person.
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“It’s been a very hard year for everyone,” Hamilton admitted.
“For me, it’s been challenging in ways that I wasn’t expecting, but I am incredibly grateful for that.
“I have felt more growth this year as a man, in terms of internal strength, than I have in many other years.”