Josh Hill says he has given up a possible career in motorsport to pursue his interests in music.
The 22-year-old son of 1996 Formula 1 world champion Damon was competing in the Formula 3 European Championship with Fortec, but announced his retirement this week.
He believes stopping immediately is the best course of action as he looks to develop other interests.
“To stop mid-way through a season is quite an odd thing to do, but when the time comes you’ve got to do it,” Hill told AUTOSPORT.
“I did make my decision before the Zandvoort Masters, but by then it was too late to drop out and I didn’t want to let anyone down.
“I had intended to do the season but, having chatted with dad, unless you’re 100 per cent focused on something it’s not a good idea to continue, especially in something as dangerous as motorsport.”
Hill, who won races in Formula Ford, Formula Renault, the Toyota Racing Series and the MRF Challenge during his five-year career, confirmed he now wants to focus on music.
“I want to pursue other areas and life is short,” added the former McLaren AUTOSPORT BRDC Award finalist. “You’ve got to do what makes you happy.
“I’ve enjoyed being in motorsport, but it’s not what I want to spend the rest of my life doing. F1 was the goal, but it’s not any more and I’m happy with that.
“My plan is to study in music. My other passion is drumming so I’m going to try and pursue that and see where it takes me – there’s a music side that runs in the family too!”
Although Hill Jr says he will now take a break from motorsport, he expects to visit some race events in future.
“I’ll definitely show myself occasionally,” he added. “It’d be good to see the friends I’ve made in the sport.”
