Lewis Hamilton reached a significant milestone by competing in his 400th Formula 1® race during the 2026 Sao Paulo Grand Prix weekend. This achievement places him among the most experienced drivers in the history of the sport, drawing recognition and respect from fellow competitors and peers alike.
Hamilton’s 400 consecutive race starts span over 20 seasons, a testament to his enduring presence in the championship. Only Fernando Alonso has more starts, with 445, though Alonso’s career includes breaks from the series. Over his career, Hamilton has secured seven World Championships, 106 race wins, and 105 pole positions, including a recent pole at the Mexico City Grand Prix. At 41 years old, Hamilton continues to demonstrate motivation and competitiveness in the sport.
Fellow drivers have expressed their admiration for Hamilton’s longevity and dedication. Fernando Alonso congratulated Hamilton on joining the ‘400 Club’ and noted that with longer calendars, more drivers might reach this milestone in the future. Kimi Antonelli, the current World Champion, acknowledged Hamilton’s remarkable career span and expressed hope to race for as long. George Russell praised Hamilton’s character and passion, suggesting that 2026 could be Hamilton’s strongest season since 2021. Lando Norris also highlighted Hamilton’s sustained competitiveness against top drivers such as Charles Leclerc.
Hamilton’s milestone at Sao Paulo coincides with the 44th start of his car number 44 at Interlagos, a number famously associated with Ayrton Senna, one of Hamilton’s heroes. This connection adds a symbolic layer to the occasion, linking Hamilton’s career to one of the sport’s most revered figures.
The recognition from rivals and teammates alike underscores Hamilton’s ongoing influence in Formula 1®. His consistent participation and performance over two decades highlight both his personal commitment and the evolving nature of the championship, where longer calendars and improved fitness regimes allow drivers to extend their careers.
As Hamilton continues with Scuderia Ferrari, the milestone serves as a marker of his sustained presence in the sport rather than a signal of a career’s end. The comments from Alonso, Antonelli, Russell, and Norris reflect respect for Hamilton’s achievements and the challenges of maintaining such a level of performance over time.
This moment at the 2026 Sao Paulo Grand Prix illustrates the evolving landscape of Formula 1®, where experience and longevity are increasingly valued alongside speed and skill. Hamilton’s 400th race start is a clear milestone that celebrates his enduring role in the sport’s history and ongoing competition.