About
Lewis Hamilton is a British racing driver who competes in Formula One for Mercedes-AMG Petronas. He has won seven World Drivers' Championship titles, tied with Michael Schumacher for the most in F1 history. Hamilton is widely considered one of the greatest Formula One drivers of all time.
Career Timeline
Formula One Rookie Season
Debuted with McLaren, finished second in championship as rookie. Earned approximately $500K base salary plus bonuses.
Youngest F1 World Champion
Won first World Championship at age 23 on final lap of final race. Secured major sponsorship deals and salary increase.
Joins Mercedes Racing Team
Left McLaren for Mercedes in pivotal career move. Signed $100M multi-year deal that would define dominant era.
Begins Mercedes Dominance Era
Won second world title, first of six with Mercedes during hybrid engine era. Established himself as face of modern F1.
Ties Schumacher Championship Record
Won fourth world championship, matching icons like Prost and Vettel. Became global sports icon with fashion and activism ventures.
Equals Schumacher Seven Titles
Matched Michael Schumacher's record seven world championships. Led Black Lives Matter initiatives and expanded business empire.
Loses Title Final Lap
Lost championship to Max Verstappen in controversial final race of season. Considered retirement but returned for 2022 season.
Announces Ferrari Move 2025
Signed with Ferrari for 2025 season in blockbuster move. Remains highest-paid F1 driver with extensive endorsement portfolio.
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Last updated: February 23, 2026