During the epic Australian GP, Kelly Slater, regarded by many as the best surfer, blessed the paddock with his presence. The American surfer, a record 11-time World Surf League champion, came down to Melbourne to witness his friend Lewis Hamilton racing against the mighty Max Verstappen and Fernando Alonso. And to say the least, his visit proved to be worth it as the seven-time F1 champion, amidst several troubles with his car, bagged the first podium of this season.

Kelly Slater remains the oldest active surfer on the World Surf Tour, and in his story, he said, “On the way to Bells. Figured I’d stop and see Lewis Hamilton do his thing.” To see Lewis Hamilton do his magic, the surfer took a detour to Albert Park, Melbourne, thus delaying his plans to the Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach event, set to take place from April 4 onwards.

One only does so when they are closely attached to someone. And certainly, Lewis Hamilton and Kelly Slater have been close for a while now. The two have met several times and are close friends; the former even thanks the surfer for changing his life!

Slater first met Lewis in the Mercedes’ garage. So, he might as well have proven to be lucky for the Briton and given him the right confidence that he needed before the race. Going into the weekend in Australia, there were no hopes for a Mercedes podium. Yet, miracles happened, and Hamilton was found standing tall on the podium ahead of his long-time rival and also his first F1 teammate, Fernando Alonso.

READ MORE: “Disaster Ferrari Weekend”: Salt Rubbed in Charles Leclerc’s Wound After Unfortunate “Inchident” Leaving Fans Frustrated

Later, Slater thanked the Mercedes driver and the team for their hospitality, while congratulating them on a great finish, which, of course, wasn’t easy to come by. The text on his next story read: “Thanks to @lewishamilton and @mercedesamgf1 for the hospitality today. Nice finish early in the year! 💪”

Relationship between Lewis Hamilton and Kelly Slater

Lewis Hamilton and Kelly Slater, two icons coming from different worlds, Formula 1 and surfing, share a unique bond. Despite coming from different backgrounds, their shared passion for extreme sports and a thirst for success have brought them together.

Their friendship is a fascinating one, with Hamilton’s precision and strategy on the track and Slater’s skill in mastering the unpredictable ocean. Once Lewis opened up about how Slater changed his life for the better.

He posted a photo of Slater and him with a beautiful quote on his social media account. It read: “Kelly probably doesn’t know this but he changed my life for the better. I want you all to know how great of a human being this man is. I am forever grateful for the time you have given me, for the insight and your passion for the waves. Thank you @kellyslater.”

WATCH THIS STORY: Bromance moments between Max Verstappen & Lewis Hamilton

The bond between these two sports legends is a testament to the power of mutual respect and admiration. All we can do is sit back and watch in awe as these two titans of their respective sports continue to inspire us.