Hamilton says F1 future depends on staying competitive

Lewis Hamilton says he intends to remain in Formula 1 for the foreseeable future, but his continued competitiveness will determine how long he races. The 41-year-old Ferrari driver made the comments ahead of the Mexican Grand Prix while answering questions about whether he could still be competing when the planned African Grand Prix takes place. Hamilton said he could not predict whether he would want to continue racing in four years. He said he remains committed for now, and believes he can compete with younger drivers at 41, but is unsure whether he could do so at 44. He did not commit to racing in the 2030s or taking part in the African event. The driver said he would not want to remain in F1 if his pace, reactions or performance declined substantially. He described maintaining his competitiveness as essential to his decision, rather than setting a particular retirement age. His comments express his present intentions, not a decision about how long he will stay. The planned race is in Rwanda and is scheduled for 2030 at the earliest, subject to construction of the track and supporting infrastructure. Hamilton has previously advocated for F1 to return to Africa. The timing...