Lewis Hamilton has a Bizarre Reason for Wanting Kimi Raikkonen to Continue Racing in F1

Kimi Raikkonen is largely considered the elder statesman in Formula One. At 40-years old, he is the oldest and most experienced driver on the current F1 grid. It is also worth noting that Lewis Hamilton is the only driver closest to him in the age department.

Recently, the British driver joked that he ‘needs to start paying Raikkonen to stay in Formula 1’. This is so that the ‘Old Man of Formula One’ does not pass on to him.

In 2019, Hamilton was third, behind Raikkonen and Williams F1 driver Robert Kubica. However, with Kubica no longer on the grid, the 35-year old is the second oldest active driver in Formula 1.

However, despite age catching up, the 6-time world champion is getting good at hiding any effects. The British driver heads into 2020, gunning for a record-equalling seventh World Championship title.

Speaking to GQ Hype, Lewis Hamilton said, “I am [an elder statesman]. I need to start paying Kimi [Raikkonen] to stay so I’m not the oldest! Luckily, I think he’s going to keep going.”

Is Lewis Hamilton thinking of retirement?

“I don’t feel old at all. I feel as young as ever. I feel fit, fitter than ever. Everything just works better now, with the experience I have. I don’t even think it’s harder to stay physically in shape, although I’m sure that will inevitably tail off at some point.”

Lewis Hamilton will also be delighted to hear the numerous comparisons between himself and Michael Schumacher. However, Hamilton believes that Schumacher’s approach to his seven titles would not work for him.

He confessed that it is easy to become mentally exhausted, and mental strength is crucial. The Mercedes driver observed that the cars are getting faster each year and the records are tumbling.

Finally, he stressed that drivers should always be full of energy through the race weekend. The energy factor does not depend on the quantity of work, but the quality