Formula 1 has always had its icons — Senna's flair, Schumacher's dominance, Lauda's grit. But Lewis Hamilton stands apart as a true modern great.

With seven World Championships and more than a century of Grand Prix victories, his career is a testament to precision, resilience, and raw talent. He's not just raced; he's redefined what's possible behind the wheel.

From electrifying wet-weather drives to last-lap duels that have become the stuff of legend, Hamilton's moments of brilliance are etched into F1 history. Our travel experts have revisited the archives, debated the finest drives, and handpicked their standout performances that define his legacy.

Here are the moments that shaped a champion:

  1. Maiden World Championship
  2. First World Championship with Mercedes
  3. The Greatest Qualifying Lap of his Career
  4. Defensive Masterclass at Monaco
  5. Equalling Schumacher's Record

1. Maiden World Championship


A Champion is Made on the Final Corner

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by FORMULA 1® (@f1)

The 2008 Brazilian Grand Prix set the stage for Lewis Hamilton's rain-soaked finale at Interlagos. Title rival Felipe Massa needed to win the race and hope Hamilton would finish 6th or lower to tip the points in his favour. With the British driver languishing in 6th place after being overtaken by Sebastian Vettel, the Championship was surely slipping away.

Timo Glock in 4th place was struggling for grip in the wet on the final lap and provided the perfect opportunity for Hamilton to reclaim 5th spot as he and Vettel overtook the German on the final corner with merely seconds to spare. The circuit was sent into raptures as Hamilton crossed the line to win the title by a single point.

It wasn't just a victory; it was a masterclass in resilience under pressure, announcing the arrival of a new force in Formula One.

Jimmy Rowan, Head of Spectate

Jimmy Rowan, Head of Spectate 

For me, the way in which Lewis clinched his first championship in 2008 was nothing short of cinematic. That final lap overtake on Glock at Interlagos on the wet surface, with everything on the line, was the kind of drama that only Formula One can conjure.

2. First World Championship with Mercedes


The Beginning of a New Era

Many questioned Lewis Hamilton's move to Mercedes in 2013, but at the 2014 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, he silenced the doubters with his first World Championship for the Silver Arrows.

Consistency, raw speed, and a car that would become the envy of the grid — Hamilton and Mercedes were a perfect match, and the rest of the paddock was left chasing shadows in Abu Dhabi.

It was a defining moment for Lewis that signalled a new chapter of dominance in Formula One.

Emma Tilston, Product Executive

Emma Tilston, Product Executive

That 2014 finale will forever mark Hamilton's seamless ascendancy into Mercedes' dominant era. Seeing him shoot past team mate Nico Rosberg off the line and dominate the race from start to finish was breathtaking, and to do it under the glittering lights of Abu Dhabi's famous night race was just incredible.

3. The Greatest Qualifying Lap of his Career


Threading the 200mph Needle

Ask any F1 fan what they consider Lewis Hamilton's greatest-ever lap to be, and many will point to his pole-clinching Qualifying lap at the 2018 Singapore Grand Prix.

He threaded his Mercedes through the tight city circuit with inch-perfect precision, breaking the track record to go top in Q3 by a staggering three-tenths of a second. It was mesmerising to watch — even his team principal, Toto Wolff, called it “stardust”, hailing it as the most epic lap he'd ever seen from Lewis.  

 

Seb Perez, Sales Consultant

Seb Perez, Sales Consultant

What made this lap so special is that it's a track that's notoriously difficult to overtake on, so getting pole position is crucial in qualifying. This, and the fact that the Marina Bay Circuit was considered one of Mercedes' weakest tracks, made Hamilton's flying lap even more legendary.

4. Defensive Masterclass at Monaco


Holding the Line under Tyre Pressure

There's no doubt, The 2019 Monaco Grand Prix was one of the most inspired defensive drives of Lewis Hamilton's career. Hamilton led most of the race, but following a safety car, he was switched onto medium tyres, whilst his rivals were on the more durable hard compounds.

Pitting and losing 25 seconds to switch tyres just wasn't an option, so he was forced to manage the massive tyre degradation over 60 laps — all while defending against Max Verstappen in DRS range.

“These tyres are dead!” came the radio calls, but Hamilton's driving told a different story. Lap after lap, he held firm despite his Mercedes sliding all over the track. Maintaining the lead, he crossed the line in first to deny Verstappen and deliver a Monaco masterclass

Simon Gee, Product Manager

Simon Gee, Product Manager

One of the most demanding circuits with such little margin for error it was incredible to see Lewis bring that car home the way that he did. One false move in Monte Carlo and your race is over, to do that on tyres that were deteriorating as fast as his were makes him a true champion in my eyes.

5. Equalling Schumacher's Record


A Seven-Time Champion

Some records in sport just seem untouchable. Michael Schumacher's seven World Championships was one of them — that was, until Lewis Hamilton arrived. The scene was set at the 2020 Turkish Grand Prix to etch his name into sporting history.

In treacherous conditions that saw the grid struggle for grip, Hamilton kept his cool. His mastery of the wet surface was as much about strategy and patience as it was about speed.

While rivals Verstappen and Bottas spun, he found his rhythm to cross the line and seal his seventh title. Not only did he equal Schumacher's Everest record, but he also redefined what dominance looked like in the modern era of F1.

“That’s for all the kids out there who dream the impossible — you can do it too!” — Lewis Hamilton after crossing the finish line at the 2020 Turkish Grand Prix.

 

Becky Giles

Becky Giles, Sales Consultant

Lewis's seventh world title was the defining moment of his career. Watching him navigate the slippery chaos of Istanbul with such precision and match Schumacher's record was incredibly special. A masterclass in control and adaptability that solidified his place among the Formula One's all-time greats.

Hamilton’s New Home


Lewis Hamilton's move to Ferrari was one of the biggest moments in Formula One history, and all eyes are on the Italian Grand Prix in September where the seven-time world champion will race in front of Ferrari's home crowd for the first-ever time in red.

Monza isn't just any race either; it's the heart and soul of the Ferrari legacy, a track where history is written year after year. The Scuderia faithful will line the scarlet stands to watch Lewis take on one of the most exhilarating tracks of the season.

With Spectate, you can watch it all unfold from the best seats in the house.

 

Explore Italian Grand Prix Holidays

Book your next F1 Holiday with Spectate

With the best tickets at the biggest Grand Prix, there's no better way to experience F1 than with us.

We go the extra mile with bespoke holidays tailored exclusively to you, including flights, the best hotels, experiences and extensions to help you make the most of your F1 tour. 

What's more, our expert hosts will take care of everything while you travel with a 24-hour concierge service to assist with excursion bookings, restaurant reservations and more — meaning you won't have to lift a finger on your Formula One holiday.

Contact us today and start planning your ultimate F1 holiday!


Enjoy this blog?

If you liked this, you might enjoy:

Max Verstappen's Greatest Moments

Ayrton Senna's Greatest Moments

The Best F1 Tracks and Destinations

Or listen to our Product Manager, Simon, talk all things Formula One, from the luxurious super-yachts of the Monaco Grand Prix to the spectacular F1 finale of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, on the Inspiring Travel Podcast below.


Lewis Hamilton FAQs


1. What are Lewis Hamilton’s best moments in Formula 1?

Lewis Hamilton's standout moments in Formula 1 include his victory at the 2020 Turkish Grand Prix, where he clinched his seventh world title under challenging wet conditions, showcasing exceptional tyre management and racecraft. Another highlight is his win at the 2019 Monaco Grand Prix, where he started from pole position and held off Max Verstappen on worn tyres to take the chequered flag, dedicating the victory to his late mentor Niki Lauda. Additionally, his performance at the 2014 Bahrain Grand Prix is notable, where he engaged in intense wheel-to-wheel combat with teammate Nico Rosberg, ultimately securing the win. These races exemplify Hamilton's skill in overtaking, strategic driving, and managing race pressure.


2. How many world titles has Lewis Hamilton won?

Lewis Hamilton has secured seven world titles, equalling Michael Schumacher's record to become a seven-time world champion. His seventh title was clinched at the 2020 Turkish Grand Prix, a race that showcased his outright pace and skill in challenging conditions.


3. When did Lewis Hamilton make his Formula 1 debut?

Hamilton made his Formula 1 debut at the 2007 Australian Grand Prix with McLaren. From his first race, he emerged as a formidable competitor, holding his own against experienced drivers and starting his journey toward becoming the most revered British driver.


4. What milestones has Lewis Hamilton achieved with Mercedes?

As a Mercedes driver, Hamilton secured his first win in the 2013 season and went on to amass over 80 race wins and multiple pole positions. Key victories alongside teammate Nico Rosberg, including memorable moments at the British Grand Prix and Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, cemented his Mercedes career as one of the most successful in F1 history. Hamilton managed to hold off rivals like Sergio Perez and George Russell in intense battles, showcasing his mastery of fresh tyres and team radio strategy.


5. Which Formula 1 records has Lewis Hamilton equalled?

Hamilton has equalled Michael Schumacher's record of seven world championships and holds the joint record for the most pole positions in Formula 1. Hamilton's time at Mercedes saw him allowed to set numerous records, including his ninth victory at the 2019 Monaco Grand Prix, and his dominance in the closing laps of many grands prix. His achievements pay homage to legends like Niki Lauda and Ayrton Senna, solidifying his status among the sport's all-time greats.


6. Has Lewis Hamilton ever won the British Grand Prix?

Yes, Lewis Hamilton has indeed won the British Grand Prix multiple times, showcasing his dominance as a British driver and solidifying his Mercedes career. His victories at the British Grand Prix are among the many highlights in his journey to securing seven world titles. Hamilton's win at this iconic race often involved intense wheel-to-wheel combat and strategic mastery, further cementing his status as one of Formula 1's all-time greats.


7. What are some key races where Lewis Hamilton overtook his rivals to secure crucial wins?

Throughout his career, Lewis Hamilton has delivered unforgettable moments by overtaking rivals in high-stakes situations. For instance, at the 2014 Bahrain Grand Prix, Hamilton overtook key competitors to maintain his lead and secure a vital victory. His skilful racecraft was also evident at Istanbul Park, where Hamilton held off intense pressure in a thrilling battle. Additionally, battles against teams like Red Bull and Racing Point have showcased Hamilton's ability to execute precise overtakes, often turning the tide in the final laps of the season finale or during the third round of the championship. These moments underline Hamilton's exceptional talent in wheel-to-wheel combat and strategic racing.