Lewis Hamilton is a 7-time world champion in Formula One. He holds almost every single record in the sport. As he has mentioned many times, Hamilton does not come from a privileged background. He has always stated that he had to struggle a lot in his early tears.
In a recent fan meet on F1.com, Hamilton recalled the story of idolizing Brazilian legend Ayrton Senna and looking for him at an award ceremony after his passing.
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Watched Ayrton Senna’s video everyday: Lewis Hamilton
The Mercedes driver recalled the impact of Senna on his life. He also stated that he had dreamt of racing with McLaren and emulating the success of the Brazilian driver.
“I was coming home and watching Formula 1 and watching Ayrton Senna’s video ‘Racing is in my Blood’ every day,” said Hamilton.
“My mind was set. I want to drive a McLaren, it’s my favorite looking car, and it’s got my favorite driver in it. Then when I won the championship, I got this opportunity to go to this award ceremony, and I’d never been to anything like it before. And when I got there, my dad was telling me who is who because I’m a ten-year-old, I have no idea.”
He also recalled frantically looking for his Brazilian racing hero. “I’m looking for Ayrton but of course, Ayrton is not there because he passed away the year before.”
Continuing the story, he added, “So my dad goes, ‘That’s Ron Dennis over there. He is the boss of McLaren that makes those cars that you love.’ And I knew immediately at that point, that’s who Ayrton drives for and that’s who I want to drive for.”
Hamilton’s most prized F1 gift
Nine-year-old Hamilton who watched Senna’s video every day would be very proud of the driver he has grown up to be. Not only did he manage to actualize his dream of racing for McLaren F1, but he even won his first championship with them.
He has smashed record after record, even equaling Michael Schumacher’s untouchable record of seven world championships. However, a certain achievement from the Canadian Grand Prix holds a special place in the Briton’s heart.
Back in 2017, Hamilton secured his sixth pole position in Montreal, which was his 65th pole in F1. This achievement tied him for second most F1 pole positions with his idol, Senna. And the Brazilian racer’s family, well aware of Lewis’ admiration, saw this as an opportunity o present him with a memorable gift – a replica of Senna’s helmet.
Hamilton was beyond overjoyed at this, saying, “I am shaking. Ayrton is the one who inspired me to be where I am. To match him and receive this is the greatest honour.
“For the Senna family to send me this… is the most special thing I have above and beyond all my trophies and everything.
“I am honoured to be honoured by that family and honestly I couldn’t be happier.”
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