BREAKING NEWS: Lewis Hamilton reveals what could make him quit F1 after outlining retirement…read more
Lewis Hamilton Reflects on Future in F1: Passion and Performance Will Define His Retirement
Seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton, who will turn 40 in January, has opened up about his future in the sport and what could ultimately lead him to retire. Hamilton, whose career spans nearly two decades, is set to extend his journey even further with a much-anticipated move to Ferrari in 2025. Despite his long and highly successful tenure in Formula 1, the British driver remains passionate and deeply connected to the thrill of racing, which continues to fuel his desire to compete.
Hamilton, who recently signed a multi-year contract with Ferrari, will enter his 19th consecutive season in Formula 1 in 2025. Reflecting on what drives him to stay in the sport, Hamilton emphasized that the exhilaration of racing still captivates him. “When I get strapped in for the first time and they start up the car, I get the same bubbly feeling inside,” Hamilton shared. He described the excitement he feels when preparing for a race, particularly in moments like pulling out of the pit lane and heading into Turn 1, which still give him a huge thrill after nearly two decades of competition.
Hamilton explained that this deep sense of joy is what keeps him motivated. “There are so many moments that I still pinch myself that I get to do this,” he said. He acknowledged that the novelty of racing has not worn off, and this is likely the reason he continues to pursue it with such enthusiasm. He added, “It hasn’t become so routine that I don’t feel it. If I were numb to it, that would be a problem, and I’d probably be doing something else.”
However, Hamilton admitted that the day he stops feeling this way might be the moment he considers stepping away from Formula 1. He hinted that he would need to find something equally thrilling, like flying fighter jets, to match the intensity of racing. While he still finds immense joy in the sport, Hamilton is also mindful of the physical and mental demands that come with being a Formula 1 driver.
- In a recent interview with *Esquire*, Hamilton spoke about the challenges of maintaining his energy and passion for the sport, particularly with the grueling schedule of a Formula 1 season. “There are days when I’m like, ‘I don’t know how much longer I can go,'” Hamilton admitted. He explained that unlike other sports, Formula 1 does not offer extended breaks during the season, leaving little room for recovery or downtime. Despite this, he remains committed to continuing as long as possible, though he recognizes the importance of managing his time and energy wisely.
Hamilton revealed that he has a mental roadmap for when the time comes to retire. “I do have a plan, mentally, of where I’d like to extend to,” he said, though he emphasized that he wants to approach retirement strategically. Hamilton is determined not to let burnout or disillusionment dictate the end of his career, stating that the moment he no longer loves the sport will be the time to leave. “I hope that moment never comes,” he added.
Hamilton also shared insights from conversations he’s had with other athletes who retired early and later regretted it. “Many people have told me they wish they could have done just one more year,” he said. He expressed his desire to “max out” his time in Formula 1, savoring every moment of a sport that has defined much of his life.
Ultimately, Hamilton is committed to staying in Formula 1 as long as he remains passionate and competitive. “But I don’t want to do it if I’m not good,” he concluded, making it clear that his future in the sport depends on maintaining both his love for racing and his performance on the track. As he prepares to join Ferrari, Hamilton’s focus remains on pushing his limits and continuing to enjoy every second behind the wheel.
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