Hamilton was speaking in Austin ahead of this evening’s race when he began discussing life after F1.

He said: “What happens after racing? After your career, you know?

“Because you spend so much time focusing on your career to be the best you can be, most often you haven’t prepared for what’s after. But it’s okay – I’m ready.”

Fans listening in began to react in shock after they thought that Hamilton had said he was ready to move on from the sport.

But the 38-year-old was quick to correct himself and ensure them he’s sticking around for a few more years.

“Well I’m not ready, but like I’m ready [prepared]! I think I’ve got another five years left in me,” he explained.

F1 fanatics in the crowd went wild at the admission from the star and were overjoyed with the idea of seeing Hamilton race well into his 40s.

The Mercedes driver began life on the F1 track back in 2008 and has been one of the sport’s greatest names ever since.

He has won seven World Championships, a feat only matched by the great Michael Schumacher, and seems as if he is keen to get hold of that elusive eighth.

But for now he must focus on trying to snatch second place in this years’ standings off Sergio Perez after Max Verstappen wrapped up his third consecutive title in Qatar.

3Hamilton is currently third in the Formula One standingsCredit: Alamy

3Max Verstappen can put his feet up after winning the World Championship with FIVE Grand Prix’s still to come