Lewis Hamilton’s openness and vulnerability regarding his struggles in life was something unheard of in Formula 1 two decades ago.
Lewis Hamilton is arguable the biggest name in Formula 1. The seven-time world champion has a massive popularity across the globe and is spotted with the biggest celebrities every now and then.
Yet, Hamilton has remained open and vulnerable regarding his struggles.
Ever since joining F1 in 2007, Lewis Hamilton has not been afraid to talk about the racism he faced as a kid in karting.
The Briton was the only black driver competing professionally and suffered from bullying throughout his junior days.
Nevertheless, Hamilton never backed down from his dream of becoming an F1 world champion. Rather, the 39-year-old used the platform to raise awareness about racism. So much so, that the seven-time world champion is certainly the most emotionally open and authentic driver at the pinnacle of motorsport.
Lewis Hamilton never shies away from talking about difficult issues
F1 drivers were often believed to be tough men who just raced and went back home. No one ever thought that a driver would confess their struggles surrounding mental health. However, Lewis Hamilton has turned things around. Recently, the Briton even admitted that he suffered from depression from the age of 13.
That’s not all, the 39-year-old even recalled the time when he was forced to to hold back his tears from his father Anthony Hamilton. Such instances would be hard for anyone to share. However, Lewis Hamilton is not afraid of being vulnerable to his fans and accept his past.
No other driver on the grid has ever been as open as Hamilton. Now, drivers do acknowledge the need for mental health awareness. Yet, none even come close to the vulnerability shown by the seven-time world champion. Perhaps, this could be the result of everything the Briton had to endure to reach where he is today.
Certainly, Lewis Hamilton inspires millions not only by his driving, but even by his comments. The Briton’s emotional confessions show young kids that its okay to talk about mental health, its okay to struggle with depression. Afterall, we are only human. It remains to be seen if more drivers will follow Hamilton’s footsteps and share their own stories in the coming years.