Hamilton reaffirms ambition to race into his mid-forties for African Grand Prix

Lewis Hamilton has reiterated his ambition to remain in Formula 1 into his mid-forties, with the prospect of racing in Africa a major motivation. Speaking before the Mexico Grand Prix, the 41-year-old Ferrari driver said he remained fully committed to competing, while acknowledging that he could not know how he would feel in four years, BBC Sport reported.

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The seven-time world champion has spent years campaigning for a grand prix on the continent. According to the BBC, Formula 1 has agreed a 10-year deal with Rwanda beginning in the early 2030s. The event would bring the championship back to Africa for the first time since 1993, and Hamilton would be at least 45 when it takes place.

Hamilton challenged assumptions that his age must determine how long he can continue at the highest level. He pointed to his reaction time at the previous race as evidence that he could still compare favourably with younger competitors. He also accepted that getting older could present difficulties he had not yet encountered, rather than claiming that age would have no effect on his career.

His comments come during a stronger second season at Ferrari after a difficult first campaign with the team. Hamilton joined the Italian constructor in 2025 and won the Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix in June this year. He cited his performances as a response to doubts raised during that opening season about whether he could still compete at the top of the sport.

Hamilton is also involved in the contest for second place in the drivers' championship. The BBC reported that he is competing with four other drivers to finish behind Mercedes' runaway leader Kimi Antonelli, who is 21 years younger than Hamilton. That battle remains his immediate competitive backdrop as he discusses ambitions extending well beyond the current season.

Despite his desire to reach an African race, Hamilton stopped short of guaranteeing that he would still be on the grid in the 2030s. He said continued performance mattered and that he did not want to remain in Formula 1 after a significant decline. His stated commitment is therefore accompanied by uncertainty over both his future motivation and how long he can maintain his level.