Seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton declared that the sport has "never had anyone like me in the 70 years" of its history, speaking at a news conference ahead of the Mexico Grand Prix on 30 October 2026. The British driver, who joined Ferrari in 2025, reiterated his determination to continue racing into his mid-forties with the goal of competing in a Grand Prix in Africa.
African Grand Prix ambition
Formula 1 has signed a 10-year deal with Rwanda for a race starting in the early 2030s, which would mark the first Grand Prix on the continent since 1993. Hamilton, who will be at least 45 when that race takes place, said he approaches the prospect with humility. He cited Aston Martin driver Fernando Alonso, who will turn 46 next summer and is set to continue in F1, as evidence that age need not be a barrier.
Championship battle
Hamilton is currently third in the drivers' championship, one point behind Mercedes' George Russell in second and five points ahead of Red Bull's Max Verstappen. The championship leader is Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli, who is 21 years Hamilton's junior and could clinch his first world title in Mexico City. Only 31 points separate Russell from McLaren's Lando Norris in sixth, with Hamilton's Ferrari teammate Charles Leclerc eight points behind him.
Recent form
After a difficult first season with Ferrari, Hamilton has enjoyed a stronger 2026 campaign, including a victory at the Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix in June. He said he has proven he can still compete at the highest level, though he acknowledged unforeseen challenges that come with age. "As long as you are willing to sacrifice everything, which I am right now... I am still all in," he said.
