Lewis Hamilton Declares He's 'Built Differently,' Vows to Race into 2030s
The seven-time Formula One champion, 41, aims to continue racing into the next decade, citing his unique mindset and physical capabilities.
Lewis Hamilton has asserted that he is uniquely positioned within Formula One history, stating he is "built differently" to any other driver as he reaffirmed his commitment to racing into the 2030s. The seven-time world champion's ambition to continue includes fulfilling a personal dream of competing in Africa, with Formula One announcing a potential race in Rwanda from the early 2030s.
Hamilton, who is 41, would be at least 45 when the Rwandan Grand Prix might take place. When questioned ahead of the Mexican Grand Prix about the possibility of remaining competitive at such an age, Hamilton dismissed the notion that it would be a stretch. "Firstly, you've never had anyone like me in the 70 years (of F1), I feel like I am built differently," he stated.
He acknowledged potential challenges associated with age, such as diminished reaction times, but pointed to his performance in recent races. "Did you see my reaction time in the last race? It was faster than some of the youngest people here," Hamilton added.
"As long as you are willing to sacrifice everything, which I am right now – I can't say in four years whether I will want to continue doing what I'm doing – but I am still all in. I will be for the foreseeable future."
Currently, Hamilton is in contention for second place in the drivers' championship this season, competing against several drivers, including Kimi Antonelli, who is 21 years his junior. This season has seen a significant improvement for Hamilton with Ferrari, marked by a victory in Barcelona in June, following a challenging debut year with the team.
Hamilton believes his performances have demonstrated his continued ability to compete at the highest level. "Time will tell whether I'm here in the 2030s. I never want to overstay my welcome in the sense of not having the performance," he said. "I don't want to be driving around with that having really dropped off. Everyone assumed that last year and I have proved everyone wrong. I'll continue to try to do so."