Lewis Hamilton, a name synonymous with Formula 1 success, believes age is just a number. His recent move to Ferrari for the 2025 season and beyond underscores this conviction. The decision stemmed from a strategic one-year contract with Mercedes for 2024, allowing Hamilton to activate an exit clause and join the iconic Maranello team. This bold move begs the question: can Hamilton, at 40, achieve an unprecedented eighth world title? He emphatically asserts, “You can’t compare to me.”
A Unique Path to Ferrari
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff’s comments about cognitive sharpness and shelf life in his book, Inside Mercedes F1: Life in the Fast Lane, sparked controversy. While later clarified, these remarks highlighted the inherent challenges faced by older drivers. Hamilton, however, remains unfazed. He vehemently refutes any comparison, emphasizing his unique journey as the first and only Black driver in the sport. His unwavering focus and hunger for victory set him apart.
Lewis Hamilton in his Ferrari racing suit. Photo by: Ferrari
Age is Just a Number: Defying Historical Trends
Historically, F1 drivers in their 40s have faced an uphill battle. Few have achieved significant success in recent decades. Nigel Mansell’s victory at the 1994 Australian Grand Prix at 41 stands as a notable exception. While Michael Schumacher secured pole position at the 2012 Monaco GP at 43, a grid penalty prevented him from capitalizing on this achievement.
Nigel Mansell celebrating his victory at the 1994 Australian Grand Prix. Photo by: Williams
Even at 40, Hamilton isn’t the oldest driver on the grid. Fernando Alonso, at 43, continues to lead Aston Martin’s efforts. However, assessing Alonso’s performance relative to age is complicated by the lack of a consistently competitive teammate.
Renewed Vigor and the Drive to Prove
Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur lauded Hamilton’s unwavering motivation and rookie-like enthusiasm during pre-season testing. This renewed energy likely stems from the change of scenery after over a decade with Mercedes.
Lewis Hamilton with Charles Leclerc and Ferrari Team Principal Frederic Vasseur. Photo by: Ferrari
Despite his record-breaking achievements, Hamilton has something to prove. His final year with Mercedes proved challenging, with a significantly lower qualifying performance compared to teammate George Russell.
The Eighth Title: A Fiercely Competitive Landscape
The 2025 season promises intense competition, with McLaren, Ferrari, Red Bull, and Mercedes all vying for supremacy. Securing an eighth world title will be a monumental task.
Hamilton, however, remains resolute. He possesses the experience, the team, and the unwavering determination to reach his goal. Retirement is not on his radar. He’s prepared to compete, potentially even until he’s 50, driven by an insatiable desire to win. For Lewis Hamilton, the message is clear: “Can’t compare to me.” He’s on a mission, and only time will tell if he can achieve the seemingly impossible.
