Just three days ago, Lewis Hamilton turned 39, and his remarkable longevity in Formula 1 continues to impress. As he gears up for his 13th season with Mercedes, having renewed his contract for two more championships, the seven-time world champion will start the 2025 season at the age of 40.

This extraordinary age in sports is not unique to Hamilton, as another legend, Fernando Alonso, also competes in F1 at the age of 43. Looking back at F1 history, there have been drivers who entered the circuit at even older ages. Here are the top 5 oldest “stallions” at the helm:

1. Adolf Brudes – Entered a Grand Prix at 52 years, 9 months, and 19 days.
2. Luixhi Faxholi – Oldest Italian in F1 at 53 years and 22 days, securing his only victory in 1951.
3. Artur Legat – Aged 54 years, 7 months, and 20 days during his last race in 1953.
4. Filip Etonselë – Participated at the extraordinary age of 55 years, 6 months, and 8 days in 1952.
5. Luis Shiron – Oldest F1 driver at 55 years, 9 months, and 19 days during the Monaco Grand Prix in 1955, finishing in fifth place.

These drivers showcased exceptional endurance, proving that age is just a number in the world of Formula 1.