Full History Of Lewis Hamilton In Timeline From 1982

2 hours ago : Kim Kardashian and Lewis Hamilton Spotted Together: Dating Rumors Heat Up

Kim Kardashian and Lewis Hamilton were seen displaying affection in Malibu, fueling dating speculations. Fans admired Lewis Hamilton's style during their outings, noting their coordinated outfits and growing closeness.

1982: Keke Rosberg's World Championship

In 1982, Nico Rosberg's father, Keke Rosberg, was the World Drivers' Champion.

January 1985: Lewis Hamilton's Birth

In January 1985, Lewis Carl Davidson Hamilton was born in Stevenage, Hertfordshire, to Anthony Hamilton and Carmen Larbalestier.

1993: Alain Prost Won World Driver's Championship

In 1993, Alain Prost won his fourth and final World Driver's Championship title.

1993: Began Karting

In 1993, Lewis Hamilton began his karting career, marking the start of his journey in motorsports.

1994: First season without car No. 1 since 1994

2015 was the first season since 1994 that the Formula One field did not have a car bearing the number 1, as Alain Prost had retired after winning the 1993 World Drivers' Championship.

1995: Reference to 1995 Australian Grand Prix

In 2008, Hamilton's victory at the British Grand Prix had the largest margin of victory since the 1995 Australian Grand Prix.

1996: First British Driver to Win the World Drivers' Championship since Damon Hill

In 2008, Hamilton became the first British driver to win the World Drivers' Championship since Damon Hill in 1996.

1998: Offered a Role in McLaren-Mercedes Young Driver Programme

In 1998, Ron Dennis offered Lewis Hamilton a role in the McLaren-Mercedes Young Driver Programme, following his second Super One series and British championship wins. The contract included an option of a future Formula One seat.

1998: Signed to McLaren-Mercedes Young Driver Programme

In 1998, Ron Dennis signed Lewis Hamilton to the McLaren-Mercedes Young Driver Programme after Hamilton's success in karting.

1999: Progress in Intercontinental A Ranks

In 1999, Lewis Hamilton continued his progress in the Intercontinental A karting ranks.

2000: Teammates in Karting

In 2000, Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg were teammates in karting, racing for Mercedes Benz McLaren in Formula A, where Hamilton became European champion.

2000: European Champion in Formula A

In 2000, Lewis Hamilton became European Champion in Formula A with maximum points. The same year, he was made a "Rising Star" Member by the British Racing Drivers' Club.

2000: Karting World Cup and European Championship Wins

In 2000, Lewis Hamilton won the Karting World Cup and European Championship, marking further progression in his early racing career.

February 2001: Began Studies at Cambridge Arts and Sciences (CATS)

In February 2001, Lewis Hamilton began his studies at Cambridge Arts and Sciences (CATS), a private sixth-form college in Cambridge.

2001: Began Car Racing Career

In 2001, Lewis Hamilton began his car racing career in the British Formula Renault Winter Series, finishing fifth in the standings.

2001: Competed against Michael Schumacher in Karts

In 2001, Michael Schumacher made a one-off return to karts and competed against Lewis Hamilton in Formula Super A. Hamilton finished the final in seventh place, four places behind Schumacher.

2002: Formula Renault UK Campaign

In 2002, Lewis Hamilton participated in a full Formula Renault UK campaign with Manor Motorsport, finishing third overall and fifth in the Formula Renault Eurocup.

2002: Goal to be experienced in Formula One

In 2002, Lewis Hamilton stated that his goal was "not to be the youngest in Formula One" but rather "to be experienced and then show what I can do in Formula One".

2004: Debut in Formula 3 Euro Series

In 2004, Lewis Hamilton made his debut with Manor in the Formula 3 Euro Series, finishing fifth in the championship. He also won the Bahrain F3 Superprix.

2004: First Formula One Test with McLaren

In late 2004, Lewis Hamilton had his first Formula One test with McLaren at Silverstone.

2005: Dominated Formula 3 Euro Series

In 2005, Lewis Hamilton dominated the Formula 3 Euro Series season with ASM, winning 15 of 20 rounds and securing 13 pole positions. He also won the Marlboro Masters of Formula 3 at Zandvoort.

2005: Re-signed with McLaren

In 2005, after initial contract issues and discussions about moving to GP2, Lewis Hamilton re-signed with McLaren to continue his development.

2006: L. Hamilton won

In 2006, L. Hamilton won.

November 2007: Hamilton's relationship with Nicole Scherzinger

In November 2007, Lewis Hamilton began an on-and-off relationship with Nicole Scherzinger, the lead singer of the American girl group, Pussycat Dolls.

December 2007: Hamilton Suspended from Driving

On December 18, 2007, Lewis Hamilton was suspended from driving in France for a month after being caught speeding at 196 km/h on a French motorway. His Mercedes-Benz CLK was also impounded.

2007: Collapse of relationship with Alonso

As a result of the events over the 2007 season, the relationship between Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso reportedly collapsed, with the pair not on speaking terms for a short period.

2007: Hungarian Grand Prix Qualifying Incident

At the 2007 Hungarian Grand Prix, during the final qualifying session, Lewis Hamilton went out on track ahead of Fernando Alonso and ignored requests from the team to let him through. Alonso was then delayed in the pits by Hamilton and thus unable to set a final lap time before the end of the session. Alonso was relegated to sixth place on the starting grid, promoting Hamilton to first, while McLaren was docked Constructors' Championship points.

2007: Hamilton's Formula One Debut

In 2007, Lewis Hamilton debuted at the Australian Grand Prix, becoming the first black driver to compete in Formula One.

2007: Hamilton moved to Switzerland

In 2007, Lewis Hamilton moved to Luins, Vaud, Switzerland, citing privacy as the main reason for leaving the UK. He later stated that taxation was also a factor.

2007: Racist abuse at Chinese Grand Prix

In 2007, Lewis Hamilton suffered racist abuse from Spanish Formula One supporters at the Chinese Grand Prix.

2007: T. Glock won

In 2007, T. Glock won.

2007: Tensions with Fernando Alonso at Monaco

In 2007, tensions arose between Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso, and McLaren after Hamilton finished second behind Alonso at Monaco. The FIA investigated whether McLaren had broken rules by enforcing team orders, but McLaren denied favouring Alonso, and the FIA vindicated the team.

June 2008: Registration of Lewis Hamilton Foundation

In June 2008, the Lewis Hamilton Foundation was registered, providing grants and donations to charitable causes.

2008: Criticism Over Tax Arrangements

In 2008, Hamilton faced criticism after a Christian Aid report highlighted his tax arrangements, with members of parliament criticizing him for avoiding UK taxes.

2008: Partnership with Heikki Kovalainen and Title Fight

In 2008, Lewis Hamilton partnered with Heikki Kovalainen, securing five race victories and ten podium finishes. He engaged in a close title battle with Ferrari drivers and Robert Kubica. Winning the rain-affected British Grand Prix by over a minute, Hamilton's performance was hailed as one of the greatest in Formula One history. He ultimately won his maiden title at the Brazilian Grand Prix, becoming the then-youngest World Drivers' Champion.

2008: Racist abuse at Circuit de Catalunya

In 2008, Lewis Hamilton was heckled and abused during pre-season testing at the Circuit de Catalunya by Spanish spectators wearing black face paint and black wigs, as well as shirts bearing racist words. A website called pinchalaruedadeHamilton, which translates into English as "burst Hamilton's tyre", contained an image of Interlagos that allowed users to leave nails and porcupines on the track for Hamilton's car to run over.

2008: Maiden Formula One Title

In 2008, Lewis Hamilton won his maiden Formula One World Drivers' Championship, becoming the then-youngest World Drivers' Champion after a title-deciding overtake on the last lap of the last race of the season.

2008: Laureus Breakthrough of the Year Award

In 2008, Lewis Hamilton won the Laureus Breakthrough of the Year Award.

2008: Alonso leaves McLaren

In November 2008, Fernando Alonso and McLaren terminated their contract by mutual consent, ending his and Lewis Hamilton's time as teammates.

2008: Victory at the 2008 British Grand Prix

In the 2008 British Grand Prix, Hamilton won by over a minute, the largest margin of victory recorded since 1995.

2008: Hamilton won 2008 World Driver's Championship

With his victory at the 2008 World Drivers' Championship, Lewis Hamilton became the then-youngest driver to win the title, aged 23 years and 301 days.

2009: Start of Period with Lower Championship Finishes

From 2009, Hamilton did not finish higher than fourth in the Drivers' Championship until 2013, testing his resolve professionally and personally.

2009: Winning with a Bad Car

In 2009, Hamilton was able to win with a bad car, showcasing his versatility as a driver.

2009: Challenging Season with McLaren and Performance Improvement

In 2009, McLaren faced a challenging start due to major technical regulation changes. Hamilton struggled initially, but major upgrades at the German Grand Prix dramatically improved the car's performance. From that point onward, Hamilton advanced in the standings, securing two race victories and three additional podium finishes.

2009: Alonso praises Hamilton

In 2017, Fernando Alonso praised Lewis Hamilton, saying "[Hamilton] was able to win with a dominant car, with a good car like 2010 or 2012, or with bad cars like 2009 and 2011. Not all the champions can say that."

2010: Disqualification at the 2010 European Grand Prix

At the 2010 European Grand Prix in Valencia, Hamilton was disqualified for overtaking the safety car, repeating an incident from his GP2 Series career.

2010: Driving Senna's McLaren MP4/4

In 2010, Hamilton drove Ayrton Senna's original title-winning McLaren MP4/4 as part of a tribute documentary, naming Senna as the number one driver ever.

2010: Winning with a Good Car

In 2010, Hamilton was able to win with a good car, showcasing his versatility as a driver.

2010: Title Battle and Missed Championship

In 2010, Hamilton was partnered by Jenson Button and engaged in a four-way title battle with Alonso, Vettel, and Webber. He secured McLaren's only pole position of the season at the Canadian Grand Prix and led the championship after winning the race. However, misfortunes in the latter half of the season resulted in Hamilton losing vital points, ultimately finishing fourth in the standings as Vettel won the title.

2010: Hamilton moved to Monaco

In 2010, Lewis Hamilton moved to Monaco, purchasing a house worth a reported £10 million, following a trend among other Formula One drivers.

2010: Involvement in a Four-Way Title Battle

In 2010, Lewis Hamilton was involved in a four-way title battle, achieving multiple race wins throughout the season while driving for McLaren.

2010: Hamilton's Car Impounded in Australia

In 2010, two days before the Australian Grand Prix, Victoria Police witnessed Lewis Hamilton deliberately losing traction in his silver Mercedes-AMG C63, and impounded the car for 48 hours. He was later fined A$500.

2010: Alonso praises Hamilton

In 2017, Fernando Alonso praised Lewis Hamilton, saying "[Hamilton] was able to win with a dominant car, with a good car like 2010 or 2012, or with bad cars like 2009 and 2011. Not all the champions can say that."

2010: Father Ceases Being Manager

In early 2010, Anthony Hamilton ceased being Lewis Hamilton's manager, after having supported his racing career since childhood.

2011: Challenging Season and Inconsistent Performances

2011 was a challenging year for Hamilton. He was out-scored by his teammate for the first time. Setbacks in his private life and on-track collisions contributed to inconsistent performances. Hamilton finished fifth in the standings with three race wins and vowed to return to form.

2011: Cars 2 voice appearance

In 2011, Hamilton voiced an anthropomorphic version of himself in the movie Cars 2.

Loading Video...

2011: Winning with a Bad Car

In 2011, Hamilton was able to win with a bad car, showcasing his versatility as a driver.

2011: Ali G comment

In 2011, after multiple summons to the stewards, Hamilton quipped, "maybe it's because I'm black, that's what Ali G says."

2011: Alonso praises Hamilton

In 2017, Fernando Alonso praised Lewis Hamilton, saying "[Hamilton] was able to win with a dominant car, with a good car like 2010 or 2012, or with bad cars like 2009 and 2011. Not all the champions can say that."

March 2012: UNICEF film in the Philippines

In March 2012, Hamilton traveled to the Philippines and made a short film about Manila's street children for UNICEF, which helped raise over £4.9 million.

October 2012: Visit to UNICEF-funded care unit in India

In October 2012, while in India for the Grand Prix, Hamilton visited a UNICEF-funded newborn care unit and nutrition centre.

2012: Winning with a Good Car

In 2012, Hamilton was able to win with a good car, showcasing his versatility as a driver.

2012: Title Contention and Move to Mercedes

In 2012, McLaren emerged as contenders, with Hamilton in title contention during the first half of the season. However, inconsistent results and mechanical failures plagued the latter half, leading to a fourth-place finish. Despite achieving four race wins and a season-high seven pole positions, Hamilton lost an estimated 110 points due to retirements and misfortunes. Prior to the end of 2012, Hamilton announced that he would be joining Mercedes for the 2013 season.

2012: Alonso praises Hamilton

In 2017, Fernando Alonso praised Lewis Hamilton, saying "[Hamilton] was able to win with a dominant car, with a good car like 2010 or 2012, or with bad cars like 2009 and 2011. Not all the champions can say that."

2012: Contract extension

Lewis Hamilton signed a £50 million contract to stay with Mclaren until the end of 2012.

2013: End of Period with Lower Championship Finishes

2013 marked the end of a period where Hamilton did not finish higher than fourth in the Drivers' Championship.

2013: Hamilton was the highest-paid Formula One driver

According to Forbes, from 2013 to 2021, Hamilton was also the highest-paid Formula One driver.

2013: Reunited with Nico Rosberg at Mercedes

From 2013, Lewis Hamilton teamed up again with Nico Rosberg at Mercedes, who he had previously raced with in karts in the early 2000s.

2013: Joining Mercedes

In 2012, Hamilton announced that he would be joining Mercedes for the 2013 season.

2013: Global Education Ambassador for Save the Children

In 2013, Hamilton became the Global Education Ambassador for Save the Children, supporting and promoting its education campaigns.

2013: Move from McLaren to Mercedes

In 2013, Hamilton moved from McLaren to Mercedes, which was noted as one of the most unexpected driver transfers in Formula One history before his move to Ferrari in 2025.

2013: First Season with Mercedes

In 2013, Hamilton signed with Mercedes, reuniting with Nico Rosberg. The move was considered a gamble. Amidst Mercedes W04's tyre management struggles, Hamilton finished fourth, securing five podium finishes and pole positions, with only one converted into a race victory at the Hungarian Grand Prix. He endured a difficult latter half of the season, managing only one podium finish.

2013: Hamilton Adopted Roscoe

In 2013, Lewis Hamilton adopted his dog Roscoe.

2013: Joins Mercedes alongside Nico Rosberg

In 2013, Lewis Hamilton joined Mercedes and was paired alongside his old karting teammate and friend Nico Rosberg.

2014: Mercedes dominance begins

From 2014, Mercedes began a period of dominance in Formula One.

2014: Start of Unbeaten Streak in Wet Weather Races

From the 2014 Japanese Grand Prix, Hamilton remained unbeaten in every race affected by wet weather until 2019.

2014: Second World Championship Title with Mercedes

In 2014, Hamilton clinched his second World Championship title with Mercedes, leading to declarations that he was the best driver of his generation.

2014: Hamilton's tax statement

In 2014, Hamilton told The Sunday Times that he pays tax in the UK but earns money in various countries due to racing in 19 different locations.

2014: UNICEF film in Haiti

In 2014, Hamilton traveled to Haiti and made a short film about child malnutrition, which was shown on ITV1 during Soccer Aid and helped raise over £6 million for UNICEF.

2014: J. Palmer won

In 2014, J. Palmer won.

2014: Helmet design switch

In 2014, Lewis Hamilton decided to switch his helmet design from predominantly yellow to a white design with three red ribbons on the side.

2014: Won Second World Title

In 2014, Lewis Hamilton won his second Formula One World Drivers' Championship title with Mercedes.

2014: Awards and Honors in 2014

In 2014, Lewis Hamilton won the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Award and the PAP European Sportsperson of the Year.

2014: Double standards in media treatment

In 2014, The Guardian journalist Joseph Harker highlighted double-standards in Lewis Hamilton's treatment compared to other British drivers by British newspapers, suggesting that his skin colour has played a factor in a perceived lack of acceptance among the British public.

2014: Hamilton Chose Car Number 44

In 2014, new Formula One regulations allowed drivers to select a unique car number for their careers. Lewis Hamilton chose to use 44, which was his number in karting, inspired by his father's Vauxhall Cavalier license plate 'F44'.

2014: Hamilton Wears Warhol's Painting

Prior to the 2014 United States Grand Prix, Lewis Hamilton wore a gold-framed version of Andy Warhol's 'Cars, Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Coupe' painting.

2014: Second World Drivers' Championship

The 2014 season brought changes to engine regulations, contributing to a successful era for Hamilton. Mercedes won 16 of 19 races, with Hamilton securing 11 victories in a duel against Rosberg. Despite mid-season misfortunes, Hamilton clinched his second World Drivers' Championship at the final round in Abu Dhabi.

February 2015: End of relationship with Nicole Scherzinger

In February 2015, Lewis Hamilton's on-and-off relationship with Nicole Scherzinger, the lead singer of the Pussycat Dolls, ended.

2015: Hamilton Signed Contract with Mercedes

Ahead of the 2015 Monaco Grand Prix weekend, Lewis Hamilton signed a contract to stay with Mercedes until the end of the 2018 season in a deal reportedly worth more than £100 million over the three years.

2015: Hamilton to continue with No. 44

Before the start of the 2015 season, Lewis Hamilton announced that he would not switch his car number to 1, despite having the option as the reigning World Champion, and would continue to race with his career number 44.

2015: Third World Championship Title with Mercedes

In 2015, Hamilton secured his third World Championship title with Mercedes, further solidifying his status as the best driver of his generation.

2015: Third World Drivers' Championship

In 2015, Hamilton secured his third World Drivers' Championship, fending off Rosberg's challenge. Winning 10 races and leading the championship throughout the season, Hamilton achieved his first back-to-back championships. The rivalry with Rosberg intensified, and Hamilton extended his contract with Mercedes.

2015: Exhibition for UNICEF's work

In 2015, Hamilton took part in an exhibition to highlight UNICEF's work and its twenty-year partnership with Starwood Hotels.

2015: L. Hamilton won

In 2015, L. Hamilton won.

2015: Richest British Sportsperson

In 2015, Lewis Hamilton was ranked as the richest British sportsperson, with an estimated personal fortune of £88 million.

2015: Won Third World Title

In 2015, Lewis Hamilton won his third Formula One World Drivers' Championship title with Mercedes, continuing his dominance in the sport.

2016: Mercedes dominance continues

From 2014 to 2016, Mercedes continued a period of dominance in Formula One.

2016: Finished ahead of teammate

In 2016, Hamilton finished ahead of his teammate, marking this season as the last time he would achieve this milestone until 2022.

2016: Runner-Up to Rosberg

In 2016, Hamilton finished runner-up to Rosberg. After a challenging start due to poor race-starts and mechanical failures, he won six of seven races mid-season. Despite engine blowout in Malaysia, Hamilton entered the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix trailing Rosberg by 12 points, and attempted to slow Rosberg down to allow other drivers to overtake him, but was unsuccessful. Although Hamilton had a season-high 10 race victories, Rosberg took the title before retiring.

2016: Addition of stars to helmet

In 2016, Lewis Hamilton added three stars beneath the ribbons on his helmet, representing each of his World Drivers' Championships.

2016: Teammate with Nico Rosberg ends

In 2016, Nico Rosberg retired from formula 1, thus ending the partnership of Hamilton and Rosberg at Mercedes

2016: Top 10 in Powerlist

Lewis Hamilton ranked in the top 10 in the Powerlist, an annual list of the most influential Black Britons, in 2016.

June 2017: Joining the Super Dads initiative

In June 2017, Hamilton joined the Super Dads initiative, a UNICEF campaign highlighting the role of fathers in childhood development.

August 2017: UNICEF visit to Havana

In August 2017, Hamilton visited Havana with UNICEF to learn about its development programs in Cuba.

November 2017: Paradise Papers Leak

In November 2017, the Paradise Papers leak revealed that Hamilton avoided paying £3.3 million in VAT on his £16.5 million private jet.

2017: Abu Dhabi Grand Prix gold helmet

After winning his fourth title in 2017, Lewis Hamilton entered the 2017 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in a gold helmet with four stars adorning the top of the helmet with the words "World Champion".

2017: Start of Consecutive Races in Point-Scoring Positions

From 2017, Hamilton finished 33 consecutive races in point-scoring positions, demonstrating his consistency.

2017: C. Leclerc won

In 2017, C. Leclerc won.

2017: Alonso praises Hamilton

In 2017, Fernando Alonso praised Lewis Hamilton, saying "[Hamilton] was able to win with a dominant car, with a good car like 2010 or 2012, or with bad cars like 2009 and 2011. Not all the champions can say that."

2017: Championship fight with Vettel

In 2017, Ferrari produced a car that was capable of fighting for the championship. Sebastian Vettel, driving for Ferrari, enjoyed an early lead on points, but Mercedes and Lewis Hamilton fought back to reduce point deficits and ultimately won the championship.

2017: Fourth World Drivers' Title

In 2017, Hamilton partnered with Valtteri Bottas. After Ferrari emerged as the team to beat, Vettel led the standings throughout the first half of the season. After the summer break, Hamilton won five in six races, and won his fourth World Drivers' title at the Mexican Grand Prix with two races to spare, registering a total of 11 pole positions, nine race victories, and equalling the record for most grand slams in a season (3).

2017: Cars 3 voice command assistant

In 2017, Hamilton voiced a voice command assistant in the movie Cars 3.

Loading Video...

2017: Won Fourth World Title

In 2017, Lewis Hamilton claimed his fourth Formula One World Drivers' Championship title after overturning a mid-season points deficit to Sebastian Vettel of Ferrari.

2017: Fan-selected helmet design

In 2017, Lewis Hamilton selected his helmet design from fan submissions; the winning design used a white and yellow base colour with red and orange details.

2017: Hamilton became vegan

In 2017, Lewis Hamilton told the BBC that he had become vegan citing concerns about the impact of the dairy industry on the environment and animal welfare, as well as his desire to live a healthier life.

2017: Awards and Honors in 2017

In 2017, Lewis Hamilton won the Best Driver ESPY Award and was inducted into the FIA Hall of Fame.

2017: 44IP Opposed Swatch Group Trademark

In 2017, Lewis Hamilton's rights management company, 44IP, opposed Swatch Group's application to register a trademark for 'HAMILTON INTERNATIONAL' in Europe for watches and timepieces, alleging bad faith and unfair competition.

2017: Top 10 in Powerlist

Lewis Hamilton ranked in the top 10 in the Powerlist, an annual list of the most influential Black Britons, in 2017.

2017: Maestro of the Gran Turismo series

Since 2017, Hamilton served as the "maestro" of the Gran Turismo series starting with Gran Turismo Sport.

December 2018: Controversial remarks at BBC Sports Personality of the Year Awards

In December 2018, Lewis Hamilton caused controversy at the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Awards after saying on live television, "It really was a dream for us all as a family to do something different. For us to get out of the slums", before correcting himself. He later apologized for his comments on Instagram.

2018: G. Russell won

In 2018, G. Russell won.

2018: Fifth World Drivers' Championship

In 2018, Hamilton and Vettel engaged in a close battle for their fifth title, but Vettel made errors in the German Grand Prix which led to Hamilton to clinch his fifth title at the Mexican Grand Prix. He secured 11 pole positions and race victories and set a record for most points scored in a season (408). Hamilton also signed a two-year contract extension with Mercedes, becoming the best-paid Formula One driver in history.

2018: Appearance on Christina Aguilera's album

In 2018, Hamilton appeared on Christina Aguilera's album Liberation, featuring on the song "Pipe" under the pseudonym XNDA.

Loading Video...

2018: Criticism of Lack of Diversity in Formula One

In 2018, Hamilton criticized the lack of diversity in Formula One, noting that "nothing's changed" since his debut 11 years prior.

2018: Executive Producer for The Game Changers

In 2018, Hamilton is credited as an executive producer for the documentary film The Game Changers.

Loading Video...

2018: Launch of TommyXLewis clothing line

In 2018, Hamilton launched the clothing line TommyXLewis with Tommy Hilfiger during New York Fashion Week.

2018: Fundraising for Small Steps Project

In 2018, Hamilton raised £6,411 for the Small Steps Project through charity auctions.

2018: Continued Consistency Praised by Ross Brawn

In 2018, Hamilton's consistent performance was praised by Ross Brawn, who noted his ability to win races even when the opposition was stronger.

2018: Second championship fight with Vettel

In 2018, Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes fought back to reduce point deficits and ultimately won the championship. There were some on-track flash points, most notably the 2017 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, when Vettel accused Hamilton of brake checking and drove into Hamilton in retaliation, earning a penalty, the pair developed a strong mutual respect in a hard but fairly contested fight.

2018: Switch back to white-and-red design

In 2018, Lewis Hamilton switched back to a 2014-inspired white-and-red helmet design.

2018: Gold helmet with five stars

In 2018, Lewis Hamilton used a gold helmet design with five stars.

2018: PETA Person of the Year

In 2018, Lewis Hamilton was named PETA's Person of the Year for his vegan activism. In the same year, Hamilton also mentioned in an interview that he had given up drinking alcohol 'a while ago'.

2018: Won Fifth World Title

In 2018, Lewis Hamilton won his fifth Formula One World Drivers' Championship title, once again overcoming a mid-season deficit to Sebastian Vettel.

2018: Awards and Honors in 2018

In 2018, Lewis Hamilton won the Gazzetta World Sportsman of the Year.

2018: Designer Clothing Line Release

In 2018, after winning the Italian Grand Prix, Hamilton traveled to Shanghai and New York to release his designer clothing line with Tommy Hilfiger before winning the next race in Singapore.

2018: Hamilton's Net Worth Reported

In 2018, it was reported that Lewis Hamilton had a net worth of £159 million.

2018: Hamilton Signed Two-Year Contract with Mercedes

In the week leading up to the 2018 German Grand Prix, Lewis Hamilton signed a two-year contract with Mercedes, reported to be worth up to £40 million per year.

2018: Tribute to Alonso

On the cool-down lap after Fernando Alonso's final race before his two-year hiatus in 2018, Lewis Hamilton joined Sebastian Vettel in paying tribute to Alonso by driving, each on one side, in a formation to the start-finish straight where all three executed donuts.

September 2019: Co-founding of Neat Burger

In September 2019, Hamilton co-founded Neat Burger, a vegan restaurant chain.

September 2019: Sale of Private Jet

In September 2019, Hamilton sold his private jet, which had been a subject of controversy due to VAT avoidance.

November 2019: Gran Turismo Sport Time Trial Challenge DLC pack release

On November 28, 2019, Hamilton's Time Trial Challenge DLC pack was released for the game Gran Turismo Sport.

2019: Acclaimed as the Greatest Driver Ever

Following Hamilton clinching a sixth World Drivers' Championship title in 2019, Johnny Herbert acclaimed Hamilton as the greatest driver ever.

2019: Sixth World Drivers' Championship

In 2019, Hamilton led the championship standings and clinched his sixth title at the United States Grand Prix. After scoring his sixth career grand slam at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Hamilton ended the season with 11 race wins and broke his own record for most points by scoring 413 points.

2019: Fundraising for Small Steps Project

In 2019, Hamilton raised £6,000 for the Small Steps Project.

2019: Won Sixth World Title

In 2019, Lewis Hamilton secured his sixth Formula One World Drivers' Championship title, further cementing his legacy in the sport.

2019: Gold helmet with six stars

In 2019, Lewis Hamilton used a gold helmet design with six stars.

2019: Awards and Honors in 2019

In 2019, Lewis Hamilton won the PAP European Sportsperson of the Year.

2019: Praised as a Representative of the Sport

In 2019, Luke Slater of The Telegraph argued that there have been few better representatives of the sport than Hamilton, both on and off the track.

2019: Rio Ferdinand describes media scrutiny as racist

In 2019, footballer Rio Ferdinand described media scrutiny of Lewis Hamilton as having "racist undertones" and contrasted Hamilton's treatment to that of fellow British driver Jenson Button.

2019: End of Unbeaten Streak in Wet Weather Races

In the 2019 German Grand Prix, Max Verstappen broke Hamilton's almost five-year unbeaten streak in wet weather races.

2019: Niki Lauda tribute helmet

Prior to the 2019 Monaco Grand Prix, Lewis Hamilton wore a special helmet design featuring Niki Lauda's classic red-and-white palette with his name printed on the back, honoring the influence Lauda had on his career.

January 2020: Donation to Australian Bushfire Relief

In January 2020, Hamilton donated US$500,000 to causes related to bushfires in Australia.

May 2020: Criticism of Formula One's silence on George Floyd murder

In May 2020, following the murder of George Floyd, Hamilton criticized prominent figures in Formula One for their silence on the issue via a post on Instagram.

June 2020: Establishment of The Hamilton Commission

In June 2020, Hamilton established The Hamilton Commission with the Royal Academy of Engineering to increase black engagement in STEM and motorsport.

July 2020: Confirmation of musical involvement

In July 2020, Hamilton confirmed his involvement in Christina Aguilera's 2018 album Liberation as XNDA, revealing he had been writing and recording music for ten years.

August 2020: Investment in fashion magazine W

In August 2020, Hamilton was listed as one of the high-profile investors who purchased fashion magazine W.

September 2020: Launch of Team X44

In September 2020, Hamilton launched Team X44 to compete in the all-electric SUV off-road racing series Extreme E from the 2021 season on.

December 2020: Human Rights Advocacy in Bahrain

In December 2020, Hamilton addressed human rights in Bahrain, speaking out against sportswashing and intervening in the case of a boy facing the death penalty, discussing it with human rights organizations and Bahraini officials.

2020: Seventh Title and Discussions of All-Time Greatness

After Hamilton won his seventh title in 2020, John Watson stated that Hamilton is the greatest driver of his generation and argued that he may be the greatest Formula One driver of all time.

2020: Knighthood and Recognition as a True Giant

Following Hamilton's knighthood in 2020, Formula One CEO Stefano Domenicali said that Hamilton is a true giant of the sport and that his influence is huge both in and out of a car.

2020: Seventh World Drivers' Title

Hamilton dominated the 2020 season to win his seventh Drivers' title, equalling the record for most titles set by Schumacher. He secured ten pole positions and eleven race victories, breaking the record for all-time most wins. Hamilton missed the Sakhir Grand Prix after contracting COVID-19. He clinched the title at the Turkish Grand Prix.

2020: Partnership with #TOGETHERBAND

In 2020, Hamilton partnered with the #TOGETHERBAND charity campaign to promote the United Nations' 17 Global Goals, including visiting Alperton Community School to discuss the importance of education.

2020: Continued Support for Small Steps Project

In 2020, Hamilton raised £4,000 for the Small Steps Project, with a donated race suit reportedly raising €20,000 for vulnerable children.

2020: L. Hamilton won

In 2020, L. Hamilton won.

2020: Matte black helmet with purple details

In 2020, Lewis Hamilton opted for a different helmet color palette, which used matte black as base color with purple details; he later added a Black Lives Matter emblem to the lid, in support of the movement.

2020: Awards and Honors in 2020

In 2020, Lewis Hamilton shared the Laureus Sportsman of the Year Award with Lionel Messi. He also won the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Award, the L'Équipe Champion of Champions, Gazzetta World Sportsman of the Year, and shared the honorary FIA President Award with Michael Schumacher.

2020: Time magazine's 100 most influential people

In 2020, Lewis Hamilton was listed as one of Time magazine's 100 most influential people globally.

2020: Equalled World Title Record

In 2020, Lewis Hamilton won his record-equalling seventh Formula One World Drivers' Championship and broke the all-time win record at the Portuguese Grand Prix.

2020: Hamilton Won His Seventh Title

In 2020, Lewis Hamilton won his seventh title, tying the all-time record set by Michael Schumacher.

2020: Base helmet with gold outlines and accents

In 2020, Lewis Hamilton wore his base helmet with gold outlines and accents, instead of a full gold design.

2020: Richest British Sports Star

In 2020, Lewis Hamilton's fortune was an estimated £224 million, making him the richest British sports star in the history of the Sunday Times Rich List.

2020: Hamilton's dog, Coco, died

In 2020, Lewis Hamilton's second bulldog, Coco, died at the age of six.

2020: Response to Hamilton's activism and FIA's attire ban

In 2020, following Hamilton's activism, Formula One expressed support, but the FIA later banned unofficial attire on the podium and in media interviews. Hamilton acknowledged the FIA's limits but didn't regret his actions.

2020: EUIPO Ruled Against 44IP

In 2020, the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) rejected 44IP's arguments in the trademark dispute with Swatch Group, ruling that there was no bad faith by Swatch Group and that 44IP's 'LEWIS HAMILTON' trademark did not extend to the word 'HAMILTON' alone.

2020: Victory at the 2020 Turkish Grand Prix

In the 2020 Turkish Grand Prix, Hamilton secured his seventh world title with a performance widely acclaimed as one of his greatest. He won by over 30 seconds, citing the race as his "stand-out" performance of the season.

May 2021: Laureus Athlete Advocate of the Year Award

In May 2021, Hamilton received the inaugural Laureus Athlete Advocate of the Year Award.

July 2021: Founding of Mission 44 and Ignite

In July 2021, Hamilton founded Mission 44, a charity for underprivileged youth, pledging £20 million. Mission 44 collaborates with Ignite, a joint foundation with Mercedes, focusing on diversity in motorsport.

2021: Hamilton was the highest-paid Formula One driver until 2021

According to Forbes, from 2013 to 2021, Hamilton was also the highest-paid Formula One driver.

2021: Praised for Few Mistakes and Completeness

Ahead of the 2021 season, Martin Brundle highlighted Hamilton's ability to avoid mistakes and his completeness as a driver.

2021: Support for LGBT rights

In 2021, Hamilton criticized the Hungarian government's anti-LGBT law before the Hungarian Grand Prix and called out LGBT rights in Saudi Arabia before the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.

2021: Last Pole Before Hungarian Grand Prix

In 2021, Hamilton had his last pole position until he secured his record ninth pole at the Hungarian Grand Prix in 2023.

2021: Ended Runner-Up to Max Verstappen

In 2021, Lewis Hamilton became the first driver to surpass 100 race wins and pole positions, but ended as runner-up to Max Verstappen amidst a disputed finish.

2021: Hamilton recalls rivalry with Vettel

In 2021, Lewis Hamilton recalled his rivalry with Sebastian Vettel, describing their battles as helping bring them closer together.

2021: Knighthood

In 2021, Lewis Hamilton was knighted in the New Year Honours, recognizing his contributions to motorsport and society.

2021: Most influential Black Briton

In 2021, Lewis Hamilton was named the most influential Black Briton in the 14th Powerlist, for his sporting success and his advocacy in the Black Lives Matter movement. He was also knighted in the 2021 New Year Honours for services to motorsports.

2021: Online racist abuse

In 2021, Lewis Hamilton was subjected to online racist abuse following a controversial win at the British Grand Prix. Mercedes, Formula One, and the FIA issued a joint statement condemning the abuse.

2021: Awards and Honors in 2021

In 2021, Lewis Hamilton won the Best Driver ESPY Award.

2021: Team X44 finishes 2nd in Extreme E championship

In the 2021 season, Team X44 finished 2nd in the inaugural Extreme E championship, behind Nico Rosberg's RXR team.

2021: Rainbow helmet design

Lewis Hamilton used rainbow helmet designs during the Qatar, Saudi Arabian and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix of 2021 in support of LGBTQ rights in the Middle East.

2021: Title Decided on Last Lap

The 2021 season saw Max Verstappen and Hamilton emerge as title favourites, leading to intense on-track battles. Hamilton achieved his 100th pole position and race win. However, Hamilton was denied the championship by a last-lap overtake from Verstappen in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. During the year, Hamilton extended his contract with Mercedes.

2021: PORTL hologram tour

Throughout 2021, Hamilton toured the world via PORTL hologram, debuting in Los Angeles in September.

January 2022: X44 wins Extreme E Sustainability Award

In January 2022, X44 were crowned inaugural winners of the Extreme E Sustainability Award.

March 2022: Hamilton to Add Mother's Name

In March 2022, Lewis Hamilton revealed he was in the process of legally changing his name to include his mother's maiden name, Larbalestier, as a middle name.

June 2022: Hamilton Made Honorary Citizen of Brazil

On June 9, 2022, Lewis Hamilton was made an honorary citizen of Brazil after a proposal by politician André Figueiredo was passed in the Brazilian Chamber of Deputies.

August 2022: Joining Denver Broncos Ownership Group

In August 2022, Hamilton joined the ownership group of the National Football League's Denver Broncos.

October 2022: Founding of Dawn Apollo Films

In October 2022, Hamilton founded the production company Dawn Apollo Films.

2022: Hamilton's Net Worth Increased

By 2022, Lewis Hamilton's net worth had increased to £300 million.

2022: Declined Role in Top Gun: Maverick

In 2022, Hamilton was offered a role in Top Gun: Maverick by Tom Cruise but declined due to Formula One commitments.

Loading Video...

2022: Winless Campaign

In 2022, Lewis Hamilton had a winless campaign, marking a challenging season in his Formula One career.

2022: Fluorescent yellow helmet design

In 2022, Lewis Hamilton moved to a fluorescent yellow helmet design, retaining the purple details and championship stars.

2022: Challenging Season with Mercedes

In 2022, driving alongside George Russell, Hamilton experienced his first Formula One season without a race win or pole position. Due to technical regulation changes, Mercedes struggled with the W13 car, which suffered from porpoising, leading to a back injury for Hamilton at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. He finished sixth in the standings, behind his teammate Russell, marking the first time since 2016 he was outscored by a teammate.

2022: Takashi Murakami helmet design

Lewis Hamilton used a unique helmet design for the Japanese Grand Prix in 2022, designed by Japanese artist Takashi Murakami.

November 2023: Cosmetic Hamilton player skin added to Fortnite

In November 2023, Epic Games added a cosmetic Hamilton player skin to Fortnite. A likeness of Hamilton's dog, Roscoe, was also added to the game.

2023: Co-founding of Almave

In 2023, Hamilton co-founded Almave, a non-alcoholic blue agave spirit brand.

2023: Another Winless Season and Contract Extension

In 2023, Hamilton faced another winless season amidst Red Bull dominance, finishing third in the standings. He achieved his record ninth pole at the Hungarian Grand Prix and signed a two-year contract extension with Mercedes worth over £100 million.

2023: Another Winless Campaign

In 2023, Lewis Hamilton experienced another winless campaign, continuing a period of challenges in his Formula One career.

2023: Hajime Sorayama helmet design

Lewis Hamilton used a unique helmet design for the Japanese Grand Prix in 2023, designed by Japanese artist Hajime Sorayama.

September 2024: Hamilton Discusses Battling Depression

In an interview in September 2024, Lewis Hamilton stated that he has been battling depression from the age of 13, linking the symptoms to the pressure of racing, difficulties at school, and being bullied. He also described having "some difficult phases" in his twenties.

2024: Reference to 2024 season

Hamilton's difficulties with the ground-effect generation of cars persisted throughout his debut season with Ferrari, much like in 2024, referencing a challenging season.

2024: G. Bortoleto won

In 2024, G. Bortoleto won.

2024: Departure from Mercedes Announced

In 2024, Hamilton triggered an exit clause in his contract with Mercedes, announcing his departure at the end of the season. Despite a challenging season adapting to the W15 car, he secured his ninth British Grand Prix victory, ending a 31-month winless drought. He finished the season a career-lowest seventh in the championship.

2024: Executive Producer on Motorcycle Mary

In 2024, Hamilton was one of the executive producers on Motorcycle Mary, a short documentary film about Mary McGee.

Loading Video...

2024: Record-Breaking Ninth British Grand Prix Victory

In 2024, during his twelfth and final season with Mercedes, Lewis Hamilton secured his record-breaking ninth British Grand Prix victory.

February 2025: Lululemon Brand Ambassador

In February 2025, Lululemon announced Hamilton as one of its brand ambassadors, including collaboration with their research and design teams as well as advocacy initiatives.

September 2025: Hamilton's Dog Roscoe Died

On September 29, 2025, Lewis Hamilton revealed that his dog, Roscoe, had died the previous day, following complications from pneumonia. He adopted Roscoe in 2013.

2025: Only black driver in Formula One

As of 2025, Lewis Hamilton is still the only black driver to race in Formula One

2025: Co-production of F1 film on Apple TV+

In 2025, Dawn Apollo Films is scheduled to co-produce the F1 film, starring Brad Pitt and directed by Joseph Kosinski, to be released on Apple TV+.

Loading Video...

2025: Joining Ferrari in 2025

In 2025, Hamilton joined Ferrari on a multi-year agreement, replacing Carlos Sainz Jr. This marked the first time in his career where he did not drive for a Mercedes-powered team, resulting in a challenging debut season marked by fluctuating results, including a sprint victory at the Chinese Grand Prix before disqualification from the main race. He ended the season sixth in the championship.

2025: L. Fornaroli won

In 2025, L. Fornaroli won.

2025: Signing with Ferrari

In 2025, Lewis Hamilton is set to sign with Ferrari, marking a significant move in his Formula One career.

2025: Neat Burger's closure

In 2025, Neat Burger shut down after recording over US$24 million in net losses.

2025: Ferrari helmet design

Upon signing with Ferrari in 2025, Lewis Hamilton reverted to a design reminiscent of the early stages of his Formula One career, featuring yellow as the base color along with red accents and championship stars, complemented by the Ferrari emblem replacing the Mercedes logo.

2026: Only black driver in Formula One

As of 2026, Lewis Hamilton remains the only black driver to race in Formula One.

2026: Contributing to Team's Competitiveness

In 2026, Hamilton is reported to be contributing to shaping Ferrari's competitiveness ahead of regulation changes. He has been involved in meetings focusing on structural changes and car development, presenting detailed suggestions for improvement.

2026: Contracted with Ferrari

In 2026, Lewis Hamilton is contracted to remain with Ferrari until at least the end of the year.

2026: Hamilton in relationship with Kim Kardashian

Since 2026, Lewis Hamilton has reportedly been in a relationship with American media personality and socialite Kim Kardashian, first appearing together at Super Bowl LX.