Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time Formula 1 World Champion, is gearing up for an extended career in the sport, taking inspiration from NFL icon Tom Brady, known for his remarkable longevity in American football.
As Hamilton embarks on a new two-year contract extension with Mercedes, set to race until 2025, he cites Brady, along with his F1 rival Fernando Alonso, as role models for athletes seeking to prolong their careers.
Brady, a seven-time Super Bowl champion and three-time league MVP, astounded the sports world by continuing to play in the NFL until the age of 45.
After an illustrious 22-year career, Brady retired following the 2022 season, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and success.
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Hamilton, who is currently 38 years old, views Brady as a source of inspiration, stating, “I think I look at people like Tom Brady, who’s such an incredible athlete and has shown what can be done today.
“He’s the real role model, in that respect, I think for all athletes to be able to look at.”
The British racing sensation expressed his gratitude for having the opportunity to speak with Brady and gain insights into the athlete’s regimen and dedication to maintaining peak physical condition.
Hamilton noted, “I’m really, really fortunate that I’ve been able to speak to him to understand, as well, what he’s done, what he does consistently to keep himself in shape, and he’s expressed it in the media anyway.”
Hamilton also lauded the longevity of his F1 counterpart, Fernando Alonso, who is 42 years old and continues to compete at a high level.
Reflecting on Alonso’s return to the sport after a brief retirement in 2019 and 2020, Hamilton commented, “It just shows that your talent never really leaves you.
“As long as you have that passion and that commitment, you can continue…
“And I truly believe that with this team, we can win more world championships and watch races together, so that’s where all my energy is going.”
Brady achieved remarkable success in his 40s, securing an NFL MVP award and two Super Bowl trophies during that period.
Hamilton aspires to replicate this level of accomplishment in the upcoming two seasons.
However, he acknowledges the need for improvement from both himself and the Mercedes team.
Hamilton emphasised, “The goal [of winning] is simple, setting the target is simple, achieving that target is not.
“It’s going to take all of us pulling together.”
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He recognised the collective effort required to optimise the team’s aero package and performance.
Hamilton also reiterated his commitment to personal growth, saying, “Even though I’ve been driving and racing all these years, I still feel like I can improve each weekend. I think that’s what I love about this sport; it’s like…
“You’re never going to reach perfection, but the pursuit of perfection is one of the most exciting things about what we do.”