Opinion: Hamilton winning the British Grand Prix in 2024 was an example to us all

Every F1 driver wants to win their home race. Imagine returning to your place of birth and showing your old classmates that you did exactly what you said you would, you fulfilled the dream, while simultaneously making your family ridiculously proud.

Then there’s the fact that time spent at home is a rare and precious thing to anyone working in the sport. All too often we go from the airport, to the hotel, to the track and then back again, without ever soaking up the cultural nuances of our destination. This can make life in F1 feel transient, anonymous, even lonely. Until we break the habit and don’t get on a plane... we drive to Silverstone.

I grew up in Northamptonshire about 20 minutes from the track. It was the venue of my first live sporting experience, the 1988 British Grand Prix. The emotion that evokes every year when I return, is powerful. Almost as powerful as the noise of the rib-rattling V8 engines at the time.

One of the most compelling aspects of the British Grand Prix is the crowd. British fans are well known for their passion and knowledge of the sport, and their enthusiasm is palpable throughout the race weekend. The sea of Union Jack flags, the roar of approval for every overtake and the camaraderie among the fans creates a unique atmosphere.

Which is why Lewis Hamilton’s triumph at the British Grand Prix this year was nothing short of historic. Hamilton delivered a masterclass in racecraft in typically British weather conditions and showcased his unyielding spirit and profound connection to his home crowd. His victory represented so much more than just another win, this was a celebration of his resilience. This was the result of months of introspection and soul searching. It had been 645 long days since his last victory. He had navigated the controversy of Abu Dhabi 2021, and (by his own admission) questioned whether he should retire, many times.

I watched the race in the Mercedes hospitality unit, a few feet from his father Anthony, who was pacing up and down, unable (even after 17 years in the sport) to relax. As his son took the chequered flag for a record ninth time at Silverstone I was reminded of the moment when Lewis was beaten to the championship title in 2021. He was shellshocked. His dad calmly whispered in his ear. What he said, none of us will ever know, but it was enough for Lewis to get up, walk to Max Verstappen, look him in the eye, congratulate him and shake the new champion’s hand. I have always thought Lewis gained more new fans that day than if he had taken an unprecedented eighth world title.

Here we were two and a half years on, as the roar of the fans echoed around Silverstone, Hamilton reminded us all that with perseverance, unwavering dedication, and the support and belief of those around us, the extraordinary is within our grasp. His win is a beacon of inspiration, encouraging us all to chase our dreams, and push beyond our self imposed limits. And to do that at home, well that was the fairytale.