"When you get to my age man" - Lewis Hamilton gives hilarious excuse to George Russell for not running during the Ayrton Senna tribute

Lewis Hamilton had a humorous response for not running in the Ayrton Senna tribute run ahead of the 2024 F1 Imola Grand Prix. Hamilton, alongside numerous other drivers, paid tribute to the late great drivers: Senna and Roland Ratzenburger.

Brazilian racing icon and three-time F1 Drivers' champion Senna tragically lost his life in a harrowing crash at the Imola Circuit 30 years ago. The same San Marino Grand Prix race weekend also saw Austrian racer Roland Ratzenburger pass away in an accident during the qualifying race, a day before Senna's incident.

The two incidents left a mark on the racing world, boosting safety measures implemented in the sport. 30 years later, ahead of the 2024 F1 Imola Grand Prix, drivers took part in a sprint, honouring the legacy of the two late drivers. The run was organised by the former driver and four-time World Champion Sebastian Vettel.

The event saw all drivers sporting specialized T-shirts emblazoned with their racing numbers and the word "Forever" on the front, and "Senna" on the back. The color of the T-shirts was reminiscent of Senna’s iconic racing helmet.

As the drivers ran towards the Tamburello corner, where Senna's memorial stands, Lewis Hamilton opted to use his scooter instead of running. His future teammate, Charles Leclerc, chose a bike. This amusing scene prompted Mercedes teammate George Russell to question Hamilton:

"Come on, you're meant to be running! Whaat ??"

Lewis Hamilton, 39, had a cheeky response:

"When you get to my age man."

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How Ayrton Senna left a lasting impact on Lewis Hamilton's life

Hamilton officially became an honorary Brazilian citizen during the 2022 F1 Sao Paolo GP weekend. The Brit, who has won three races in the country, expressed during the ceremony how Senna inspired him from a young age.

Hamilton said (via PlanetF1):

"For me, when I was five years old, I saw Ayrton race for the first time, and that was the moment I knew I wanted to be a World Champion, just like him. It was then that I knew and learned about Brazil. It was then that I started to play FIFA as Brazil!"

Delving deep into Senna's impact on his life and career, Hamilton further added:

"But really, through his eyes, I was able to see how passionate Brazilians were and how deep it goes, the love and passion you have for your country, and how beautiful it is. I’m so excited to spend some more time here."

With the tribute complete, Lewis Hamilton will now turn his attention to the Imola Grand Prix. The first practice session begins on Friday, May 17, at 7:30 am ET, with the race scheduled for Sunday, May 19, at 9 am ET.