Lewis Hamilton is a name synonymous with Formula 1 greatness. With seven world championships, a record-breaking number of race wins, pole positions, and podium finishes, he has cemented his status as one of the sport’s all-time legends. However, beyond the headlines and the racetrack, there are aspects of Hamilton’s life and career that remain lesser-known to even his most dedicated fans.
In this article, we explore eight intriguing facts about the British racing icon, shedding light on his journey, personality, and impact both on and off the track.
1. He competed in remote-controlled car racing as a child
Before Hamilton became a household name in Formula 1, his passion for racing began with an unconventional start: remote-controlled (RC) cars. At the age of six, his father, Anthony, gifted him an RC car, sparking his early interest in speed and competition. In 1991, Hamilton entered the British Radio Car Association (BRCA) national championship, where he finished an impressive second place—competing against adults, no less.
2. He overcame bullying by taking up karate
Growing up in Stevenage, Hertfordshire, Hamilton faced challenges that went beyond the racetrack. As a mixed-race child in a predominantly white area, he experienced bullying at school, which took a toll on his confidence. To combat this, his father enrolled him in karate classes at the age of five. Learning martial arts not only helped Hamilton defend himself but also instilled discipline, resilience, and mental toughness—qualities that would later define his racing career.
3. He struggled with dyslexia
Hamilton has openly discussed his struggles with dyslexia, a learning difficulty that affects reading, writing, and spelling. During his school years at The John Henry Newman School in Stevenage, this condition posed significant challenges, particularly in an academic environment where he already felt out of place due to bullying. Despite these difficulties, Hamilton found solace and confidence in racing, where his exceptional spatial awareness and quick reflexes allowed him to excel.
4. He was expelled from school—but later reinstated
In a surprising twist from his school days, Hamilton was expelled from The John Henry Newman School just months before his final exams. The expulsion stemmed from an incident where he was wrongly accused of attacking another student. His family appealed the decision, and after a review, he was reinstated. However, the experience left a mark on Hamilton, who has spoken about how it fueled his drive to succeed in racing, where he could prove his worth on his own terms.
5. He turned down a role in Top Gun: Maverick
Hamilton’s talents extend beyond the racetrack, and his influence has caught the attention of Hollywood. One little-known fact is that he was offered a role in the blockbuster film Top Gun: Maverick, which grossed over $1.4 billion worldwide. The opportunity came from director Joseph Kosinski, who saw Hamilton’s charisma and global appeal as a perfect fit for the movie. However, due to his packed Formula 1 schedule, Hamilton had to decline the role, as filming conflicted with the racing season. He later expressed regret over the decision, noting his love for the original Top Gun film and his interest in pursuing acting in the future.
6. He has Brazilian honorary citizenship
Hamilton’s connection to Brazil goes beyond his dramatic 2008 championship win at Interlagos, where he clinched his first world title on the final lap. In 2021, his victory at the São Paulo Grand Prix, coupled with his heartfelt celebration with the Brazilian flag, won over the hearts of Brazilian fans. His admiration for Brazilian racing legend Ayrton Senna, whom Hamilton has often cited as his idol, further deepened this bond. In recognition of his contributions to motorsport and his affinity for the country, Brazilian Congressman André Figueiredo proposed granting Hamilton honorary citizenship.
7. He owns a film production company
While Hamilton’s racing career remains his primary focus, he has quietly ventured into the world of filmmaking. He founded Dawn Apollo Films, a production company aimed at telling diverse and impactful stories. The company is already working on two high-profile projects with Apple+: a feature-length documentary about Hamilton’s own Formula 1 journey and an untitled F1 movie starring Brad Pitt, directed by Joseph Kosinski of Top Gun: Maverick fame. Hamilton’s involvement in these projects goes beyond mere financing—he is actively shaping the narratives, drawing on his experiences in motorsport and his passion for storytelling.
8. He is part of an NFL ownership group
In a surprising move that bridges his influence from motorsport to American football, Hamilton joined the ownership group of the Denver Broncos in August 2022. The Walton-Penner Family Ownership Group purchased the NFL franchise for a record-breaking $4.65 billion, and Hamilton’s inclusion in the consortium made headlines. As one of only 32 NFL teams, the Broncos represent an exclusive and lucrative investment, and Hamilton’s involvement underscores his growing status as a global sports icon.