Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time Formula 1 World Champion, began his illustrious career in 2007 with McLaren, narrowly missing out on the championship by just a single point. In his rookie season, he finished second in the Drivers’ Championship but made up for that disappointment the following year. In 2008, Hamilton clinched his first World Championship in dramatic fashion, overtaking Timo Glock in the final corner of the last race in Brazil to snatch the title from Ferrari’s Felipe Massa.

Now, with his 40th birthday approaching, Hamilton is set to make his highly anticipated debut for Ferrari in 2024. Reflecting on his journey and current form, Hamilton insists that his driving skills have only improved with age. Speaking to The Times, he expressed confidence in his continued abilities, saying, “Honestly, right now I feel I’m healthier than I’ve ever been. I’m in such a good place, physically and mentally.” Hamilton believes his reaction times are still faster than those of the younger drivers and that he is a more complete driver today than he was at 22. “I was just young, energetic, and ruthless, but no finesse, no balance,” he said. Over time, Hamilton learned the importance of being not just a fast driver, but a well-rounded one, noting that leadership and teamwork are critical in achieving success.

Hamilton also opened up about his mental health struggles during his younger years. He shared how the pressure of competing at the age of 13, combined with bullying at school, left him feeling isolated, with no one to confide in. The vulnerability in his comments highlighted the immense challenges he has faced both on and off the track.

In February 2024, Hamilton caused a stir in the motorsport world when it was announced that he would leave Mercedes, his team for over a decade, to join Ferrari. The multi-year deal marks one of the most exciting partnerships in recent Formula 1 history, as Hamilton will team up with the sport’s most iconic manufacturer. His move to Ferrari also reunites him with Fred Vasseur, the team principal who co-founded ART Grand Prix, the team with which Hamilton won the GP2 title in 2006. Vasseur’s influence and connection with Hamilton are seen as important factors in the switch.

Hamilton’s departure from Mercedes ends an incredible chapter in his career. Since joining the team in 2013, he went on to win six more World Championships, dominating the sport and building a fierce rivalry with his then-teammate, Nico Rosberg. Their battles, particularly in the 2016 season, are considered some of the most intense in modern F1 history.

Currently, Hamilton sits sixth in the 2024 Drivers’ Championship, just 16 points behind Carlos Sainz, the man he will replace at Ferrari. Fans are eagerly awaiting his debut for the Italian team, hopeful that Hamilton can help return Ferrari to the top of the sport, and perhaps add even more accolades to his already historic career.