Nico Rosberg, the 2016 Formula 1 world champion, has raised concerns regarding the potential impacts of age on the performance of his former teammate Lewis Hamilton, who recently turned 40. During a segment on Sky Sports F1 ahead of the Spanish Grand Prix, Rosberg observed that Hamilton’s current season mirrors the decline he noted in Hamilton’s performance from the previous year. He emphasized:
“This is a continuation of his form from last year, where there was already a bit of a dip. George [Russell] had the upper hand and was beating him at Mercedes. Hamilton seems to be struggling a bit, particularly in qualifying pace.”
Rosberg elaborated on the implications of aging in the sport, noting that even marginal speed differences are crucial in Formula 1. He specifically mentioned that being up against younger talents, such as Charles Leclerc, adds further pressure.
Hamilton, now the second-oldest driver on the grid after Fernando Alonso, has been defending his capabilities against age-related scrutiny for some time. In an interview earlier this year with Time Magazine, he expressed his unique approach to age, stating: “The old man is a state of mind.” Hamilton remains resolute in his pursuit of excellence, emphasizing his distinctive journey as a driver and his unwavering focus on winning.
In 2025, Hamilton transitioned to Ferrari after a notable 12-year period with Mercedes, where he secured six of his seven championship titles. His decision, driven by a desire to fulfill a lifelong ambition to race for the famed Scuderia, has posed new challenges. However, it has also coincided with a period of adjustment for new teammate Leclerc, who acknowledged the difficulties in acclimating to the SF25, especially in comparison to the previous year’s car.
Leclerc remarked on the need to adapt his driving style to extract optimal performance from the SF25. He recognized that adjusting setup and style is essential in navigating the unique demands of the new vehicle.
As the season progresses, Hamilton remains committed to proving that his dedication and experience can counterbalance any concerns regarding age. His focus, devoid of distractions like a family life, underscores his single-minded pursuit of success in the highly competitive world of Formula 1.
Overall, while age is often a factor in performance, Hamilton’s experience and drive could very well continue to defy expectations, showcasing that determination can sometimes outweigh physical limitations in the sport.