By Basant El-Faramawy
Lewis Hamilton has declared that Formula 1 has "never had anyone like me" in its 70-year history and vowed to continue racing into his mid-forties in pursuit of a long-held ambition to compete in an African Grand Prix.
Hamilton Claims Unique Place in F1 History
The seven-time world champion, now 41 and in his first season with Ferrari, told a news conference ahead of this weekend's Mexico Grand Prix that he considers himself a special case. He cited his reaction time in the previous race as faster than some of the youngest drivers, insisting he remains "all in" for the foreseeable future.
African Grand Prix Target
Hamilton has campaigned for years for a race on the African continent. Formula 1 recently signed a 10-year deal with Rwanda for a Grand Prix starting in the early 2030s, which would be the first African race since 1993. Hamilton would be at least 45 when that event takes place.
Championship Battle with Antonelli
The British driver is currently fighting to finish second in the drivers' championship behind runaway leader Kimi Antonelli of Mercedes, who is 21 years his junior. Hamilton struggled in his first Ferrari season but has rebounded this year, including a victory at the Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix in June.
Proving Critics Wrong
Hamilton said he has proven he can still compete at the highest level and dismissed suggestions that his performance would drop off. "Everyone assumed that last year and I have proved everyone wrong. I'll continue to try to do so," he added.
