“Watched Him Shift Gears, My Hero” – Lewis Hamilton Opens up on Father Anthony’s Influence

Although he faced many struggles in his childhood, Lewis Hamilton overcame adversity to become the global superstar he is today. With seven F1 world titles and 100 race wins, the Briton is arguably the most decorated driver in the motor sport’s history.

Since the beginning of his racing career, the 36-year-old always had his father, Anthony Hamilton by his side. From managing his early motor sport career, to featuring in the paddock in his son’s races, Anthony played a huge role in Lewis’ life. During a recent appearance, the seven-time world champion shared glowing words and early memories of the time they spent together.

Lewis Hamilton mentions his early days in motor sport while praising his father

The Briton saw his parents get divorced when he was just two years old. While he grew up living with his mother Carmen, it was his father, Anthony who introduced him to the world of motor sport. He gifted Lewis his first remote-controlled car when he was five years old. Then, three years later, he funded his son’s go kart, which saw him begin his journey in motor sport.

Seven world titles later, it seems all those efforts bore fruit. In a recent interview, the 36-year-old recalled his struggles and memories with his father. He said, “My father lived in a one-room apartment in Hatfield and I always spent my weekends with him. I still remember the couch because I always slept on the couch because there was no other bed.”

Hamilton then went on to mention how his father was his hero, while mentioning his first experiences with motor sport. “I still remember eating a sandwich or noodle soup when we were watching the Grand Prix together,” recalled the Briton. “My neighbor next door had a remote-controlled car and drove it out on the street. I’m pretty sure I went outside and the guy let me drive it too.

I was four or five years old, and that was the first time I played in a remote-controlled car. But I loved cars before. My father was very passionate about his car and when I sat in the back seat I always watched him shift gears and all that. He’s my hero.” (Quotes translated by Google)

READ MORE: Why Does Lewis Hamilton Drive with #44 on his Car?

Hamilton keen on continuing newfound momentum

The reigning world champion finally ended his streak of four races without a win in Sochi last weekend. With this victory, he also took a crucial two-point lead over Max Verstappen in the driver’s championship?

Will the 36-year-old extend his lead in Istanbul next weekend? Or will his Dutch rival claw his way to the top once again?

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