Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time Formula 1 world champion, celebrates his landmark 40th birthday today, January 7, 2025. This milestone is particularly significant as it coincides with his first season as a Ferrari driver, marking the beginning of what many anticipate to be one of his most exhilarating and pivotal years yet.
After 12 illustrious seasons with Mercedes, where he achieved 84 grand prix victories and secured six of his seven titles, Hamilton is now poised to conclude his legendary career with Ferrari—the most celebrated team in F1 history. The switch to the iconic red cars signifies not only the next chapter for Hamilton but also reflects his enduring desire to compete at the highest level.
Starting the 2025 season, Hamilton will not be alone as the only driver over 40 gracing the F1 grid. He will share this unique distinction with Aston Martin's Fernando Alonso, who turns 44 during the season. Historically, only nine drivers have won F1 races after turning 40, with Hamilton aiming to potentially join this elite club.
The remarkable stories of Graham Hill, Maurice Trintignant, Nigel Mansell, and others serve to inspire Hamilton as he embarks on this new adventure. Hill's final victory came at the 1969 Monaco Grand Prix at age 40; Mansell’s last podium finish occurred when he was 41 at the Australian Grand Prix. With Hamilton’s reputation as the most successful driver of all time, many are left wondering: could he emulate these veterans and make history by winning again after 40?
Reflecting on this transition, Hamilton stated, "To anyone considering their next move in 2025: embrace the change. Your next opportunity is always within reach. Here's to 2025—a year of embracing new opportunities, staying hungry, and driving forward with purpose. Let's make it one toremember. Andiamo #newjob." His enthusiasm resonates as he prepares for what is sure to be a thrilling season, beginning with the Australian Grand Prix on March 16.
Ferrari has formally welcomed Hamilton with significant fanfare, including social media announcements and engagement. Team principal Frédéric Vasseur has indicated Hamilton will begin his on-track engagement soon, particularly through testing previous cars due to F1’s regulations. "For sure, we know... he's experienced enough to do it," Vasseur stated, underscoring the team's confidence as they gear up for the season.
Despite the excitement, skepticism remains about Hamilton’s ability to compete against the younger generation of drivers, including Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc. Some pundits suggest he might be too old to keep pace with this highly competitive field. Nico Rosberg emphasized these doubts, reflecting on Hamilton's performance struggles during his final season at Mercedes, where he faced intense competition from younger teammates and rivals.
Yet age alone has never dictated success within the sport. Drivers like Nino Farina, Juan Manuel Fangio, and Jack Brabham have demonstrated remarkable achievements past their 40th birthdays, proving the impossible can sometimes become reality. Observers remain hopeful Hamilton will rediscover his racing prowess and find his footing at Ferrari, allowing him to reclaim his glory as the formidable competitor he is known to be.
Hamilton’s historical swan song at Mercedes came during tumultuous years, but he finished the 2024 season with hard-fought wins, showcasing his inherent ability to perform even under relentless pressure. His goal now extends beyond merely competing; he seeks to secure his eighth world title, which would see him surpass Michael Schumacher’s record and etch his name even more firmly in F1 lore.
With the dawn of the 2025 season upon us, Hamilton stands as a figure of resilience and ambition. He intends to not only make his mark at Ferrari but to inspire others, driving forward with purpose and passion. His legacy, intertwined with the tales of other great champions, sets the stage for what promises to be yet another fascinating chapter in the annals of Formula 1 history.
Watch all 24 race weekends live on Sky Sports F1 as Hamilton navigates this exciting endeavor as Ferrari's latest star driver. The world eagerly awaits with bated breath to see if this iconic racer can defy age and expectation alike, resilient as ever and ready to race for glory once more.