What people tend to forget is the journey that I had getting to Formula One. There were plenty of years where I had to learn about losing and having bad races.
When I first started in Formula 1, I tried to ignore the fact I was the first black guy ever to race in the sport. But, as I've got older, I've really started to appreciate the implications.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Lewis Hamilton reflects on his groundbreaking role as the first Black driver in Formula 1, acknowledging the significance of his achievements.
In this quote, Lewis Hamilton shares his journey as the first Black Formula 1 driver and how his perspective has evolved over time. Initially, he focused on his racing without considering the historical implications of his racial identity in a predominantly white sport. However, with age and experience, he has come to appreciate the weight of his accomplishments and the barriers he has broken down, which highlights the importance of representation in sports and beyond.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about overcoming obstacles in sports, this quote can encourage young athletes facing similar challenges.
More from Lewis Hamilton
All quotes →Im an extremist so Im either hated or loved. I think its down to when I first got to Formula One not always knowing what I was saying, saying things that mean one thing but people were taking the other way and then people dont forget.
When I was really young, I busted my nose when I was racing. The first thing my dad asked me was: 'Are you OK?' I said, 'Can you fix the car for tomorrow?' And I won the race the next day.
If I'd won every single race and got pole everywhere, that would just be boring. It would suck. Where's the fun in that?
Sometimes, I arrive at races more energetic and clear-minded than ever, and then I have a terrible race. And the opposite is also true.
Nothing can really prepare you for when you get in the Formula One car. Knowing that you're driving a multimillion-dollar car, and if you crash it it's going to cost a lot of money, and they might not give you another chance, is scary.
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It is glorious to see such courage in one so young.
When I started modeling, they tried to pay black models less than they paid Caucasian models. I turned down those jobs because I knew what I was worth.