Lewis Hamilton says he has no plans to stick around in Formula One into his 40s but signed up for two more years because this season’s close competition has been so exciting.

Explaining the thinking behind a contract extension announced at the Austrian Grand Prix on Saturday, Mercedes’ seven time world champion told reporters he was loving the challenge.

The 36-year-old said he had considered leaving but felt both he and the sport were entering an interesting new phase.

“I think we are being challenged more than ever this year, which is great,” said the most successful driver of all time.

“And I love racing. This is what I want to do.”

Hamilton said his previous contract was supposed to be for two years but he asked for one because he was unsure whether he would continue or not, with the pandemic also casting uncertainty.

“I’m only here to win. I don’t plan to be here until I’m 40. I hope I have something else exciting to do beyond,” he said.