Lewis Hamilton's Father Shares Emotional Life-Changing Story

Newsweek

4 hours ago

Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
Lewis Hamilton's father, Anthony Hamilton, opened up on his life struggles and shared the inspiring story of how his son first met the former CEO of McLaren, Ron Dennis at age ten, an encounter that aligned him with his F1 journey to become a seven-time world champion. Anthony's message in the short video holds the power to uplift anyone going through a tough chapter in life.
Appearing on Instagram, Anthony also addressed all fathers and revealed that the proudest thing for him was that both his sons had become great human beings, a point all fathers should aspire to achieve.
Lewis began his storied F1 career in 2007 with McLaren. Despite the financial difficulties, Anthony ensured his son received the necessary training from the karting level at a very young age, helping him build a solid foundation that has made him what he is today, not only as a driver but also as a grounded individual who drives several initiatives to help the underprivileged.
Ferrari's British driver Lewis Hamilton (centre R) celebrates taking pole position with his father Anthony Hamilton (centre L) after the sprint qualifying session of the Formula One Chinese Grand Prix at the Shanghai International Circuit...
Ferrari's British driver Lewis Hamilton (centre R) celebrates taking pole position with his father Anthony Hamilton (centre L) after the sprint qualifying session of the Formula One Chinese Grand Prix at the Shanghai International Circuit in Shanghai on March 21, 2025. More
GREG BAKER / AFP/Getty Images
Appearing on 'Dose of Society' on Instagram (below), Anthony was asked to reveal one experience that changed his life. He said:
"One of the biggest experiences was meeting Ron Dennis at the Autosport Awards when Lewis was just about ten years of age. Lewis went up to Ron and said, 'One day I want to race for McLaren.' Ron said, 'Here's my number. Come back in nine years' time.'
"I just had an ordinary job, we had no idea where the karting would lead us. It was an opportunity. I believe God puts you in the right place at the right time. And when someone like Mr Dennis says call me in nine years' time, you work hard to make sure you achieve those opportunities and maximise your dream."
Anthony then pointed out that positive change often follows hardships, but one must tap into the opportunities coming their way to reap the rewards. He added:
"You know when I was younger, nothing positive ever happened for me. My mum died when I was 16. I left home, I'm struggling to find a job, find somewhere to live. And then, positive things start to happen. And then your life starts to change positively. Every time there's a positive change, you just maximise on it and believe on it."
When Anthony was asked what advice he would give to fathers, he said:
"Nobody ever says, when you have a kid, here's a manual. So, you have to make it up as you go. We all make mistakes, nobody ever is perfect. But the one thing that you always want, I think, as a parent, is you want your kid to be better than you.
"I remember when Lewis was 6 years of age, messing about with remote-controlled cars around the back of our house. You always just hope that they're going to grow up decent human beings, become decent individuals.
"And that, for me, is the proudest thing. He's a phenomenal, phenomenal individual. Both him and my other son Nicholas, probably two of the most amazing people I know. And hopefully they're inspirational for others."
Related: Tearful F1 Rookie Driver Consoled by Lewis Hamilton's Father After Pre-Race Crash Chaos