"The thing I love the most in Brazil is people, energy" - Lewis Hamilton on what attracts him to his F1 Idol's country

Lewis Hamilton believes Brazil's energy, diversity, and culture drew him to the country of his racing hero, Ayrton Senna. Speaking to Elle Magazine Brazil for Rimowa's new campaign, the seven-time world champion expressed his admiration for the Brazilian people and their music.

Recognized for his talent and deep admiration for his racing idol, Senna, Lewis Hamilton was honored with Brazilian citizenship in 2022. The British champion has always revered the late Brazilian legend's character and expressed a strong affection for his country.

Hamilton reckons that the people, music, energy, and diversity are factors that lure him to Brazil.

“The thing I love the most in Brazil is people, energy. When I was younger, growing up in England, it was the colors, green and yellow of the football shirts, that attracted me. I watched many games of the Brazilian national team. And, of course, there was Senna. When I saw ads and documentaries about him, I could hear Brazilian music and the drums in the background. I saw Carnival and how people celebrated,” he said.

“Every time I knew Brazilians in England, they said: "I love, I love the country". I don't think I've ever met anyone of another nationality who was so in love with your country. So, when I finally went to Brazil, I felt the energy. It's a very diverse country, which I love. I feel at home,” he added.

The 39-year-old has been a regular presence at the carnival in the past. Nevertheless, he confessed that, despite holding honorary citizenship, he has yet to master the Portuguese language.

“Yes. I have to learn Portuguese,” he stated.

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Lewis Hamilton believes Ayrton Senna’s personality and skill set made him an idol

Lewis Hamilton has frequently spoken about Ayrton Senna and his deep respect for the late racing legend. In an interview with Elle Magazine, the British driver recalled learning of the triple champion's tragic death at the age of nine. He believes that Senna's personality, skillset, and principles strongly resonated with him from a young age.

Explaining the reasons behind idolizing Senna, Hamilton said:

“I started watching the (F1) races when I spent the weekends with my father. (Hamilton's parents separated when he was 2 years old.) I remember starting to watch them around the age of 4. I was a very active boy and getting me to sit down wasn't easy. But, for some reason, I would stop with him for the Grand Prix. Ayrton's toy car models were what I wanted for Christmas. When I watched his videos, I felt like I understood the things he represented, how honest he was. I wanted to drive his way. I felt a connection.”

“I remember that I was running (karting) on the day he died and my father coming to give the news. That knocked me down. At the age of 9, I hadn't had this experience yet. I remember crying for weeks. It was difficult and strange because I didn't know him, he wasn't from my country, but it meant so much to me. Over the years, I've learned to love the person he was,” he added.

Hamilton is the most successful F1 driver in history, with 104 wins and 201 podiums to his credit. His latest milestone was achieving the highest number of podiums with his 200th podium at Silverstone.

In 2024, the Mercedes champion has amassed 150 points and is ahead of his teammate George Russell in the championship standings. He is sixth in the standings, while his teammate is placed eighth.