“They Told Lewis Hamilton That He Was Slow”: 7-Time F1 Champion Opens Up On Challenges With Dyslexia

An open truth about Lewis Hamilton? Well, the seven-time world champion never had an easy childhood and his road to Formula One was no joy ride either. But, let’s stick to the off-track experiences for now. The one major factor that Hamilton had to cope with during his childhood years was Dyslexia, a rather common yet arduous disorder that is connected to the field of neurology.

Before we move any further, here’s a tiny bit about dyslexia. This brain-related disorder usually happens at a young age and could prolong into the teenage years. Dyslexia is a learning disorder that adds extra difficulty in reading and writing.

Yes, the now ‘GOAT’ of F1 was once having an extremely tough time finding his way through school because of dyslexia. However, the Briton managed to showcase to the world that being dyslexic isn’t the end of the road, as he ended up investing his knowledge into various fields, including art, music, and sports.

Lewis Hamilton on his battle against Dyslexia

During an interview with Mercedes F1 partners, IWC, Hamilton revealed how being Dyslexic played a crucial role in his life. “I think, like you, I went through School. The things that I excelled at were art, where I was having to be creative like design technology where we had to design something,” he said.

“When it came to numbers and all those things, being dyslexic, I was really suppressed because I was struggling, I was in all the bottom classes, and I was trying so hard to work my way up and I was never allowed. Teachers just said you weren’t good enough.”

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“And naturally sport, it’s very athletic. What I always discovered was I was just good at things I could be creative with. So, music is a great creative outlet,” he added.

Hamilton shares a morale-boosting message for people with dyslexia

Hamilton shared his thoughts on Dyslexia and offered a rather strong message for the people struggling with the disorder.

“I think, hopefully, you and I, and so many out there will show them and inspire them that they can be still something special. It is a shame that today, in the world that, going to the school, there is a certain way you have to study. And if your mind doesn’t work in that way, you’re valued or maybe, you’re valued less,” he added.

The interviewer replied, “I have a few talks coming up with schools and universities. And I’m going to start with saying, ‘They told Lewis Hamilton that he was slow’. That gets the kids going.”

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Overall, strong words from the Mercedes F1 hero! Hamilton, apart from his splendid work with Mission 44, has now also stepped up to motivate and encourage people with dyslexia. Having suffered from dyslexia himself, can Hamilton make a difference for others coping with the same?