I’m going for a left field take here. I actually think this is benefitting Hamilton’s legacy. Yes 8 would take him past Schumacher. But, if there was always something which held Lewis back from a likeability perspective it was always his perceived arrogance and lack of sportsmanship. Heck, I didn’t like him for a long time.
In the context of what he’s trying to do now, from race equality in the sport, creating a platform for young minority children to have a shot, being seen as a role model. In a bizarre way, the way he’s carried himself after the race will cement him with a legacy that far exceeds what the 8th title would have.
He might walk away now. He might not. I don’t know. But in some ways being the “victim” here will have changed his image drastically to everyone who isn’t a huge Max fan. From neutrals to even less hardcore Max fans, his standing has taken a significant boost. Good for him.