Lewis Hamilton is determined to defy age and claim a historic eighth Formula 1 championship with Ferrari. Achieving this milestone would set a new record, although it poses a formidable challenge, as no driver has won a championship past the age of 40 in almost six decades. While victory has eluded drivers over 40 since 1994, Hamilton remains undeterred, expressing to Time magazine that he dismisses comparisons to older racers, emphasizing his relentless hunger to win, unencumbered by familial responsibilities.
With the 2025 season set to kick off next week in Melbourne, Australia, the path to post-40 success in F1 has been fraught with ups and downs for seasoned champions.
Michael Schumacher, another seven-time world champion, returned to the sport with Mercedes in 2010 aiming for an eighth title. However, he was outperformed by teammate Nico Rosberg and managed only a single podium finish before retiring in 2012 at 43, later making way for Hamilton at Mercedes.
Nigel Mansell, the 1992 champion, re-entered F1 in 1994 to assist Williams teammate Damon Hill. Mansell secured a victory in the Australian Grand Prix at 41 but garnered limited attention as Schumacher clinched the championship. His subsequent attempt with McLaren in 1995 faltered, leading to a swift exit after just two races.
Juan Manuel Fangio, often hailed as the greatest driver of F1’s early years, achieved his first title at 40, ultimately securing five championships, with the last in 1957 at 46. Fangio’s achievements in the 1950s remain legendary, and his record for winning at an advanced age still stands.
Giuseppe Farina became the inaugural F1 world champion at 43 in 1950. The early days of F1 saw older drivers thrive, including the oldest race winner, Luigi Fagioli, who triumphed at 53 after sharing a 1951 victory with Fangio.
Jack Brabham, a seasoned Australian, became the last driver over 40 to win the championship, achieving this feat in 1966 at 40 with his own team. He continued racing until 43, retiring in 1970 after his final F1 win.
As the 2025 season unfolds, another seasoned champion, Fernando Alonso, remains on the grid. The two-time champion, once Hamilton’s teammate during his rookie McLaren days in 2007, is still pursuing greatness with Aston Martin. Although the team focuses on future rule changes in 2026, Alonso is eager to add another title, which would make him the oldest champion in nearly seven decades.
