Lewis Hamilton reveals RACISTS made him think twice about Ferrari…read more
Sir Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time Formula 1 world champion and the sport’s first and only Black driver, has candidly discussed the reservations he harbored about joining Ferrari due to potential racism in Italy. Before the commencement of the 2025 season, Hamilton made the monumental decision to depart from Mercedes, his team of 12 successful years, to race for Ferrari. This move, uniting the most successful driver with the most storied team in F1 history, almost didn’t materialize because of these concerns.
Reflecting on his early experiences, Hamilton recounted facing racial abuse during his karting days in Italy at the tender age of 12. These incidents left an indelible mark, making him acutely aware of the racial challenges that could arise. His apprehensions were further heightened by the racist abuse directed at Black footballers in Serie A, notably Romelu Lukaku, who endured monkey chants and had bananas thrown at him by fans. Such events painted a concerning picture of the racial climate in Italian sports.
In an interview with TIME, Hamilton admitted that these issues weighed heavily on his mind when contemplating the switch to Ferrari. He stated, “It definitely crossed my mind when I was thinking about my decision.” However, he chose to focus on the broader perspective, emphasizing that it’s often a small group that perpetuates such negative behavior. Hamilton expressed optimism, saying, “I don’t think it’s going to be a problem.”
Upon his arrival, Hamilton was met with overwhelming support from Ferrari’s passionate fanbase, the Tifosi. Thousands flocked to Maranello to witness their new hero donning the iconic red suit for the first time. This warm reception stood in stark contrast to his initial fears, showcasing the fans’ enthusiasm and acceptance.
Despite the positive welcome, Hamilton faced criticism from certain quarters regarding his move to Ferrari. Some former F1 drivers and team principals questioned Ferrari’s decision to sign him, suggesting that the team erred in replacing Carlos Sainz. Addressing these critiques, Hamilton remarked, “I never reply to any of the older, ultimately white men who have commented on my career and what they think I should be doing.” This statement was a pointed response to figures like Eddie Jordan and Bernie Ecclestone, who had been vocal about their skepticism. Hamilton dismissed their opinions as insignificant, focusing instead on his commitment to his new team and the challenges ahead.
Hamilton’s journey has been marked by a steadfast commitment to combating racism and promoting diversity within motorsport. Throughout his career, he has been a vocal advocate against racial injustice, often using his platform to highlight systemic issues. In 2020, following the murder of George Floyd, Hamilton criticized the silence within the F1 community regarding racial protests. This prompted several drivers and team executives to voice their support, leading to initiatives aimed at promoting inclusivity within the sport.
In June 2020, Hamilton established The Hamilton Commission in collaboration with the Royal Academy of Engineering. This initiative seeks to identify barriers to the participation of Black people in UK motorsport and provide actionable recommendations to overcome them. Building on this, in July 2021, he launched Mission 44, a charity dedicated to empowering young people from underrepresented backgrounds. Hamilton pledged £20 million to support the charity’s work, underscoring his commitment to fostering diversity beyond the racetrack.
His move to Ferrari also brings attention to the team’s historical lack of diversity. While Mercedes, Hamilton’s former team, had taken proactive steps to promote inclusivity, Ferrari’s efforts have been less pronounced. The Scuderia signed a Diversity and Inclusion charter, but team principal Fred Vasseur emphasized that performance remains the priority. Hamilton’s presence in the team could serve as a catalyst for broader cultural shifts within Ferrari, encouraging a more inclusive environment.
At 40, Hamilton remains as driven as ever, with no plans for retirement. He draws inspiration from athletes like Tom Brady and LeBron James, who have achieved success well into their 40s. Hamilton’s focus is unwaveringly on securing his eighth world championship title, a feat that would solidify his status as the most successful driver in F1 history. His dedication to the sport is evident, as he continues to push boundaries and challenge the status quo.
In addition to his racing endeavors, Hamilton has ventured into film production, co-producing an upcoming F1 movie starring Brad Pitt. This project aims to bring the excitement and intricacies of Formula 1 to a broader audience, further elevating the sport’s global profile. Hamilton’s involvement in such ventures showcases his multifaceted interests and his desire to leave a lasting legacy both on and off the track.
In summary, while Hamilton’s transition to Ferrari was fraught with concerns about potential racism, his experience thus far has been overwhelmingly positive. The support from fans and his unwavering determination to excel serve as testaments to his resilience. As he embarks on this new chapter with Ferrari, Hamilton remains committed to his mission of promoting diversity within motorsport and achieving unparalleled success on the track.
