Hamilton: 'I hope I'm not racing at 40'

Lewis Hamilton is fighting alongside Max Verstappen for the world championship this season. While Red Bull Racing is at the top of the standings, for now, Mercedes follows close behind. The English driver enjoys the races and has confidence in his own qualities.

In recent years things have been seemingly easy for Hamilton on the track. Mercedes had a better car than the other teams and therefore drove in front almost by default. This season is different and Mercedes sometimes have to acknowledge Red Bull. Hamilton enjoys the battle and tries to enjoy it as much as possible.

"I don't think it's because of Max or anyone else," he tells Corriere della Sera. "The reason is that I discover new things about myself every day. With the lockdowns, I've had more time to refine my talent, body and mind. I'm always competing against myself. I think about how I can improve myself, I look at how I was last year and how I can overcome a seven-time world champion."

Hamilton sees several drivers continuing into later life, but doesn't expect that of himself. "I honestly hope I'm not racing anymore at 40. There are so many things I want to do that it would be difficult. But in life, time moves so fast that it can surprise you. For example, I didn't expect to have as much fun as I am having this season."