Hamilton says F1 has never had anyone like him, but leaves 2030s future open

Asked whether he could still be in Formula 1 for Rwanda's first Grand Prix, Lewis Hamilton said the sport had never had anyone like him in its 70-year history. He cannot say whether he will still want to race in four years; time will tell whether he is still competing in the 2030s.

Rwanda is due to host a Grand Prix sometime in the coming decade, marking Formula 1's first return to Africa since 1993. Hamilton has previously said he does not want to leave the sport before taking part in an African Grand Prix. If Rwanda stages its race in 2030, he would need to remain in F1 until age 45.

Hamilton said he remains fully motivated and still loves his work. He acknowledged age-related challenges he cannot yet foresee, but said assumptions about declining reflexes have followed him throughout his career. Citing the previous race, he said his reaction was quicker than that of some of the youngest drivers.

Hamilton also said he would not want to continue beyond what he considers sensible, especially if he could no longer deliver the performances expected of him. At 41, he said, he can still compete with a 20-year-old; whether he could do so at 44, he said, is uncertain.