You would assume Hamilton wants to at least savour F1's new era next season when significantly revised aerodynamic regulations come into force that will make the cars look different, but crucially, with the hope they lead to much closer racing.
Hamilton, though, is refusing to commit himself to 2022. That much was made clear when the team launched its new challenger for this season, the W12.
"I’m in a fortunate position where I have achieved most of the stuff I have wanted to achieve up until this point so there is no real need to plan too far ahead into the future," said Hamilton.
"I think we are living in quite an unusual period of time in life and I just wanted one year. Then we can talk about if we do more and keep adding it one [year at a time] if we have to.”
You would assume that if Hamilton failed to win an eighth drivers' title this year, ensuring he becomes the most successful in the history of the sport, he would want to continue until that target is achieved. But that is not something that drives him.
"A real important decision in my mind is that I don't want that to be the deciding factor," added Hamilton. "I got into racing because I loved racing, and I think that's got to be at the core of what I do.
"If all you are going for are accolades and titles, I feel like I could potentially lose my way. Of course, it's the ultimate dream but I don't think it's necessarily going to be the deciding factor on whether I stay or keep going.
"I think it's more about when I put the helmet on and I still have that smile when I leave the garage. It's going back to 'Do you enjoy it?'
"Last year was a real tough one for everyone, including me, but I think there were some real impactful moments. Will that be the case this year? Will I enjoy it as much? We will see. I'm excited currently, so I'm sure I will."