Chinese Grand Prix: Lewis Hamilton and father 'lose contact' over split

No smiles: Lewis Hamilton admits difficulties in his relationship with his father. Speaking ahead of Sunday’s Chinese Grand Prix, where he is accompanied by his mother Carmen, the McLaren driver said the decision to part ways with his father after 20 intense years together in motorsport was still raw.

“I don’t remember the last time I spoke with him but not for a couple of weeks,” Hamilton said. “I don’t think there’s any friction but it’s not all smiles and happiness. It’s a big change so it affects all of us. “We might exchange a message every now and then but we don’t have too much to discuss at the moment.”

Although it was originally claimed the split had been decided jointly, with Anthony wishing to concentrate on other interests, Hamilton has admitted the timing had been his call.

And although the 2008 world champion did not go so far as to say they have had a row, it appears the strain is taking its toll, with Anthony understood to be upset.

“Well, we’ve been racing together for many, many years so for him not to be coming to races any more, for sure, it’s a big transition,” he said.

“But he has more space and time to focus on his projects. I’m sure he will come to a race later in the season.”

Hamilton’s mother, who had been helping him house-hunt in Zurich last week and is joining him on safari in South Africa following some sponsorship commitments, said her son was in good spirits.

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