By Fatma Younis
Lewis Hamilton has dismissed suggestions that his age will prevent him from competing at the highest level into the 2030s, declaring he is "built differently" from any driver in Formula One's 70-year history. The seven-time world champion, 41, made the comments ahead of this weekend's Mexican Grand Prix after the sport announced a race in Rwanda from the early 2030s.
Hamilton targets African race
Hamilton said he plans to continue racing to fulfil his dream of competing in Africa, which would mean driving at least until age 45. When asked whether that timeline is realistic, he responded: "Firstly, you've never had anyone like me in the 70 years (of F1), I feel like I am built differently."
Response to age doubts
The British driver acknowledged unforeseen challenges that come with age but rejected the notion that reaction times inevitably decline. He pointed to his performance in the previous race, saying his reaction time was faster than some of the youngest drivers on the grid. "As long as you are willing to sacrifice everything, which I am right now... I am still all in," he added.
Current season form
After a challenging debut season with Ferrari in 2025, Hamilton's 2026 campaign has improved significantly, including a maiden victory for the Scuderia in Barcelona in June. He believes he has proven he can still compete at the front.
Championship battle
Hamilton is in contention to finish second in the drivers' championship this season, battling four drivers behind runaway leader Kimi Antonelli, who is 21 years his junior. Hamilton praised Antonelli, who is set to be crowned champion this weekend. "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," Hamilton said.
