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 competing for Ferrari. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest F1 drivers of all time, having secured a joint-record seven World Drivers' Championship titles, sharing the honor with Michael Schumacher. Beyond his championship wins, Hamilton holds numerous records, including the most wins (105), pole positions (104), and podium finishes (203), solidifying his place as a dominant force in the sport.

Sections (7)

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

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".

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.

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.

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.

2015: Richest British Sportsperson

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

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.

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.

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: Hamilton's Net Worth Reported

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

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.

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: 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: Hamilton Won His Seventh Title

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

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.

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: 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.