Hamilton Is Making Sure Young Rookies Have Warmer Welcome In F1 Than He Did

Saturday, 28 September 2024 at 11:36

The seven-time World Champion Lewis Hamilton discussed why he tries to be supportive of the young rookie drivers entering Formula 1.

Following the 17th round of the 2024 season in Azerbaijan, Franco Colapinto shared a heartwarming post on his Instagram - a photo of him and Lewis Hamilton as they shook hands after the race.

In the description, the 21-year-old explained how much this moment meant to him. He even suggested it was "one of the most special moments" in his life.

"Lewis to shake hands with you after a race was one of the most special moments I’ve had in my life. Really appreciate how much respect you showed. Really looking forward to be meeting you back on track soon."

Colapinto scored his first points in the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, finishing in P8- one position ahead of the Mercedes driver (who started from the pit lane).

Speaking to the media afterward, Hamilton explained why he tries to make rookies like Colapinto and Ollie Bearman (whom he also shook hands with) feel welcomed in the sport.

"When I got to Formula 1, I don’t remember ever having a warm welcome from anyone except from Niki [Lauda], but he’s an ex-driver. Actually it wasn’t even Niki at the time!"

"Now I’m seeing these two do such an amazing job. I’ve got both of them ahead of me at one point driving so well, not making mistakes, really talented but also [they] have really bright futures in front of them."

Bearman, who had his debut in Saudi Arabia for Ferrari, had Lewis Hamilton come to help him get out of his car right after the Grand Prix and congratulate him on the performance. The seven-time World Champion added:

"In my position, I wanted to be different to those who were to me when I was younger. I want to make sure I’m being positive to them and uplifting rather than talking negatively about them, which a lot of people do, just talk negatively about young people coming through for no reason."