So there are many reasons why he perhaps should resign, his interests off the track could be a very good reason for him to do so.
Ofcrours Vettel, Kimi and Alonso arent near the legacy of Hamilton, but that doesnt mean he cant continute another year if he just loves the game right? That could be stronger than worrying about your reputation/legacy (for all Im concenerd he can be outperformed by both Haas the next 3 years and it would harnish his reputation. There are many examples in football as well right..
- Arjen Robben struggling for a year to get fit just to get some game time for FC Groningen, coming back after retirement
- Marc Overmars coming out of retirement to play for Go Ahead Eagles in the Dutch 2nd league
- Edgar Davids playing for Barnet in the League Two.
So you may be right, there are defintely atletes for how the pride of a difnified goodby is more important. I remember Jaap Stam at Ajax quitting mid-season as he felt he was declining and wouldn't have it..
But for Lewis it can still go either way right? Has he made any statements in the past? I bloody hope he continues, hopefully another year in a competitive Mercedes car, otherwise a la Kimi, Vettel, Alonso.. He is a gem to have in the sports.