Hamilton Admits Distant Relationship with his Father

Lewis Hamilton's split from his father earlier this season, when it was announced that the latter no longer represents his son's interests in the Formula One championship and beyond, doesn't seem professional-based entirely. On the contrary, as admitted by Hamilton himself, the two are barely speaking to each other these days.

Prior to this season, Anthony Hamilton had been a constant presence in McLaren Mercedes' garage, from his position as manager of his son. He represented the 25-year old racer not only inside the Great Circus – since his debut with the Woking based team in 2007 – but also in all the other feeder Formulas that Ham did prior to his F1 entry.

As reported by several media a few weeks before the season opening Bahrain Grand Prix, father Anthony worked out a deal with McLaren Mercedes to use old F1 cars for his brand new F1 Academy – in which he wants to promote young rising stars for the first steps in their single-seater careers. Consequently, he quit as manager of his son, a decision that made everyone raise their eyebrows.

“I don't remember the last time I spoke with him, but it hasn't been for a couple of weeks,” admitted Hamilton when questioned about his relationship with his father by the British media in China.

“We might exchange a message every now and then but we don't have too much to discuss at the moment. I don't think there is any friction but it's not all smiles and happiness. It's a big change, so it affects all of us,” added the 2008 F1 champion, who is yet to arrange for a new manager to represent his interests in the series.

So far, several names were rumored by the media to be in contention for the spot, including former McLaren champion Mika Hakkinen or current BBC commentator and former GP driver Martin Brundle. Until Ham will make his decision, he will be represented by the McLaren team.