How Lewis Hamilton Shaped the Future: A Legacy Timeline

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

Lewis Hamilton is a British Formula One racing driver currently competing for Ferrari. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest drivers in the history of the sport. Hamilton has achieved a joint-record seven World Drivers' Championship titles, tying with Michael Schumacher. He also holds numerous records, including the most wins (105), pole positions (104), and podium finishes (202). His career has been marked by exceptional skill, consistent performance, and significant influence on Formula One racing.

Sections (7)

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

2002: Goal to Show Potential 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 show what he could do.

2010: Drove Senna's McLaren MP4/4 for Top Gear tribute

In 2010, Hamilton drove Ayrton Senna's original title-winning McLaren MP4/4 as part of a tribute documentary by the BBC motoring show Top Gear. In the documentary, along with fellow racing drivers, he named Senna as the number one driver ever.

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2016: Ranked in top 10 of Powerlist

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

2017: Ranked in top 10 of Powerlist

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

2019: Recognition as a Representative of the Sport

In 2019, The Telegraph sports journalist Luke Slater argued that "[t]here have been few better representatives of the sport than Hamilton ... [both] on and off the track."

2020: Won seventh title

After Hamilton won his seventh title in 2020, John Watson stated that Hamilton "is, by a million miles, the greatest driver of his generation and you can argue he will go on to be the greatest Formula One driver of all time".

2020: Hamilton's knighthood

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

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: Named One of Time's 100 Most Influential People

In 2020, Lewis Hamilton was listed in Time as one of the 100 most influential people globally, recognizing his impact beyond Formula One.

2021: Sky Sports Commentary on Hamilton

Ahead of the 2021 season, Martin Brundle, commentating for Sky Sports, highlighted Hamilton's consistency and lack of mistakes throughout his career.

2021: Knighthood

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

2021: Named 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.