"We need to encourage and create platforms for the next generation": Lewis Hamilton opens up on Mission 44 and the impact of the initiative

Lewis Hamilton recently talked about his Mission 44 initiative and the impact he wants to see in society through it. The Mercedes driver, through his mission, wants to provide a platform and an opportunity for young people across diverse domains.

Hamilton founded Mission 44 back in 2021 to build a fairer, more transparent, and more inclusive future for younger generations. The charity mission has a global cognizance and, as of 2024, it is thoroughly supported by Formula 1.

Speaking about his mission in life through the Mission 44 initiative, the Mercedes ace spoke about how he uplifted a group of children in Brazil during the 2023 Brazilian Grand Prix in Sao Paulo.

"Last year, in São Paulo, I was able to take 60 children from the city to the Interlagos Race Track, show them the circuit, the pits and everything else," Hamilton told Elle Brazil. "I spent some time with them, and they came up with ideas on how to solve some of the problems they face in Brazilian education and society."

"These are things I want to continue to develop. I want to figure out how I can use this initiative to impact people, especially children, who are the future. We need to encourage and create platforms for the next generation – the new innovators, the new designers, the new artists," he added.

As per reports, F1 decided to support Mission 44 following its successful advocacy towards social justice in terms of education, employment, and empowerment. This mission also actively enables younger boys and girls to find a career in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and Motorsports.

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Mission 44 played an important part in Lewis Hamilton's move to Ferrari

Lewis Hamilton at the Belgian GP in Spa-Francorchamps (Source: Getty Images)

Lewis Hamilton's decision to move to Ferrari next season raised multiple eyebrows in February this year. Despite signing a two-year contract extension with Mercedes in 2023, Hamilton decided to make the switch, and John Elkann's supportive stance for Mission 44 played a big part.

"Elkann promises to embrace and champion Hamilton's diversity and inclusion initiatives, including Mission 44. The potential joint investment fund with Exor could contribute $250 million to Hamilton’s future projects on top of his compensation for his on-track services," a report read.

Lewis Hamilton is all set to move to the Prancing Horse on a multi-year deal worth over $400 million. This would see the British driver part ways with the Silver Arrows after a 12-year-long association. Hamilton will join Charles Leclerc at Ferrari. The most successful F1 driver's union with the most successful F1 team is surely going to be an interesting sight to behold.