After last season's controversial finish at Abu Dhabi where Max Verstappen won the World Drivers' Champions on the last lap. 

Days later Toto Wolff, Mercedes F1 Team Principal, said:

"I would very much hope Lewis continues racing because he is the greatest driver of all time.”

Mohammed Ben Sulayem, FIA president, was asked what he thinks about the situation and if he is afraid of Hamilton not racing next year while attending the Dakar.

“No, I don’t think he will [quit].”

“I’ll ask your question: did Lewis declare that he’s not going to race? No. Exactly. Being a driver, you declare yourself, you don’t let the rumours [talk].”

“I’m confident that Lewis [will return]. Lewis is a big part of motorsport and Formula 1, the new era [can add to] Lewis’s wins and achievements, and also Verstappen is there.”

“I am very confident that you will see a very challenging Formula 1 season next year.”

The FIA President also talked about the current sporting regulations in F1 saying the situation at the final race cannot happen again.

“I am going to study the case of what happened in Abu Dhabi, and a decision will be taken how to go forward without any pressure from anyone.”

“The integrity of the FIA, it is my job and duty to protect it, but it doesn’t mean that we do not look into our regulations, and if there is any improvement [to make], we will.”

Sulayem also said he has sent Hamilton some messages to try and discuss things with the Mercedes star. 

“I sent him messages.”

“I think he’s not ready now to be functioning 100%.”

“You don’t blame him. I understand his position, being a driver, of course he’s on a different level.”

“But also the rule is there. For me it’s not particular, a driver or a certain team. It is in general, there are rules that we have to respect, and the integrity of the FIA, we have to respect. And I cannot judge anyone unless I get the correct facts.”

During the past month the FIA end of season Gala was celebrated, Lewis Hamilton and Toto Wolff did not attend.

“...not being present at the gala dinner, it’s something that the team and Lewis knew about it. But at the end of the day, you are human also. The stress and the pressure has been there.”

“I am confident that everything will be sorted out. We cannot think of our past. We have a lot to think about. We are the people of the future.”

Mohammed Ben Sulayem was elected as FIA President last month when Jean Todt's three-term reign came to an end.