Lewis Hamilton is preparing for his switch to Ferrari ahead of the 2025 season, with his Mercedes seat set to be taken by 18-year-old Kimi Antonelli.

And the veteran laughed after being told he was old enough to be Antonelli’s father during an interview, before hinting he could remain in F1 for years as he’s in “a good place”.

Hamilton enjoyed a resurgence over the summer after two years in the wilderness as he won the British Grand Prix at the start of July, before tasting victory in Belgium three weeks later.

But Mercedes have gone off the boil again at recent Grands Prix and his move to the Scuderia can’t come quick enough for some.

Hamilton is still regarded as one of the best drivers on the grid after winning a joint-record seven world titles throughout his decorated career.

But at the age of 39, he has enjoyed a longer spell in F1 than some stars who went before him.

After being told during an interview with The Times that he could be Antonelli’s dad due to the age difference between the pair, Hamilton reportedly laughed as though the thought hadn’t occurred to him.

And addressing his future in F1, the veteran explained: “Honestly, right now I feel I’m healthier than I’ve ever been. I’m in such a good place, physically and mentally. My reaction times are still quicker than the young guys.

“I think I’m a better driver than I was at 22. I was just young, energetic and ruthless - but no finesse, no balance. I didn’t know how to be a team player, how to be a leader.

“Being a good racing driver, it’s not just about being fast, it’s about being the most rounded.”

He added: “When I study the legends, they’re spread between small percentages, so it’s the whole package - what do they speak for, stand for - that’s what I look at. I look to Ayrton Senna and Nelson Mandela, and those are the two people gelled together that I want to be.”

Hamilton announced his decision to join Ferrari in February and will become team-mates with Charles Leclerc. Antonelli, meanwhile, will line up alongside George Russell at Mercedes.

And discussing his chance to make a name for himself in F1, Antonelli said in the summer: “Reaching F1 is a dream I’ve had since I was a small boy. I am still learning a lot, but I feel ready for the opportunity. I will be focused on getting better and delivering the best possible results for the team.”