- Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso are the two oldest drivers on the current Formula 1 grid.
- Alonso will turn 42 in July.
- Hamilton likens himself and Alonso to sporting legends like LeBron James and Tom Brady.
Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton has spoken about his enduring rivalry with Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso, highlighting their unyielding hunger for victory as the driving force behind their continued success in Formula 1.
The two champions have maintained a strong work ethic and an unwavering commitment to their craft. Hamilton defended his second-place position against Alonso in their most recent on-track battle at the Australian Grand Prix.
Speaking to the media, Hamilton emphasised Alonso’s enduring talent and his own belief that true dedication never wavers.
“I can’t speak for Fernando,” Hamilton said, “but you can tell, obviously, from looking from afar and how Fernando is driving, the talent clearly hasn’t left him, and I don’t believe it leaves us.”
He acknowledged the importance of hard work, highlighting Alonso’s exceptional physical condition and remarkable performance.
“Racing is really in our DNA, in our blood, and we don’t put less work in now than we did when we were younger,” said Hamilton.
Fernando Alonso (left) and Lewis Hamilton
Sporting legends
Hamilton, aged 38, drew parallels between his and 41-year-old Alonso’s work ethic and that of other sporting legends such as NFL player Tom Brady and basketball star LeBron James.
He also noted that the wealth of information available on health and fitness had provided athletes with greater opportunities to stay at the top of their game for longer.
“With more information out there on how to be fit and healthy, you see it with the greats like LeBron and Tom Brady,” Hamilton remarked.
“So, I think there’s probably even more focus nowadays than ever before from an athlete’s perspective on how to get absolutely everything out of your mind and your body. I’m still hungry as ever, and clearly, Fernando is too.”
Looking ahead to the upcoming Monaco Grand Prix, known for its challenging overtaking opportunities, a successful qualifying session will be crucial.
Hamilton and Alonso’s unwavering determination will be put to the test as they vie for victory on this iconic circuit.
