How Lewis Hamilton Shaped the Future: A Legacy Timeline

A closer look at the lasting mark left by Lewis Hamilton—a timeline of influence.

Sir Lewis Hamilton is a highly accomplished British Formula One racing driver currently racing for Ferrari. He holds a joint-record of seven Formula One World Drivers' Championship titles, sharing the distinction with Michael Schumacher. Hamilton also boasts the most wins (105), pole positions (104), and podium finishes (202) in Formula One history, establishing him as one of the sport's most dominant and successful figures.

Sections (7)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals Legacy & Impact

1996: Damon Hill Wins the World Drivers' Championship

In 1996, Damon Hill became the first British driver to win the World Drivers' Championship, a feat that Hamilton later matched in 2008, ending a significant drought for British drivers in Formula One.

2010: Drove Senna's McLaren MP4/4

In 2010, Hamilton drove Ayrton Senna's original title-winning McLaren MP4/4 as part of a BBC Top Gear tribute documentary. He also named Senna as the number one driver ever alongside fellow racing drivers. Hamilton's experience driving Senna's car was part of a broader tribute.

2016: Top 10 ranking in the Powerlist

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

2017: Top 10 ranking in the Powerlist

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

2019: Representative of the Sport

In 2019, Luke Slater of The Telegraph argued that Hamilton was one of the best representatives of the sport, both on and off the track. Slater's comments highlighted Hamilton's positive impact and influence beyond just his racing achievements.

2020: Seventh World Title and Legacy

In 2020, Hamilton secured his seventh World Championship title. John Watson stated that Hamilton is "by a million miles, the greatest driver of his generation" and argued that he will go on to be the greatest Formula One driver of all time. Hamilton's success has elevated his status to legendary levels.

2020: Listed as one of 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: Knighthood and Influence

In 2020, following Hamilton's knighthood, Formula One CEO Stefano Domenicali stated that Hamilton is a "true giant of our sport" and that "his influence is huge both in and out of a car". Domenicali's statement emphasized Hamilton's significant impact and status within and beyond the sport.

2021: Knighted in the New Year Honours

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

2021: Most influential Black Briton in the Powerlist and Knighthood

In 2021, Lewis Hamilton was named the most influential Black Briton in the 14th Powerlist, and was knighted in the 2021 New Year Honours for services to motorsports.