Formula 1 odds paint an intriguing picture on Lewis Hamilton retirement

Lewis Hamilton is set to return to Mercedes for a 10th season in 2022. There was speculation that he might retire after the 2021 season ended in Abu Dhabi. He signed a two-year contract extension to remain with Mercedes through 2023. He recently returned to social media.

The betting odds and trends indicate that the Hamilton retirement rumors were nothing more than smoke in mirrors. The seven-time world champion is now listed as the favorite at +120, ahead of Verstappen at -225 and new Mercedes teammate George Russell at $500. Ferrari teammates Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz Jr. are listed at +900 and +1500. The 2022 season is scheduled to begin on March 20 with the Bahrain Grand Prix at Bahrain International Circuit. Mercedes are set to launch their 2022 challenger, the W13, on February 18.