Lewis Hamilton is the brightest star of Formula 1. Some call him a ‘once-in-a-generation’ talent, some have named him the ‘beast of F1’, and both nicknames fit perfectly with the 7x champ’s persona. Well, F1 wasn’t the first when the motorsport world saw the Briton’s true powers. His days at the junior levels were equally glorious. Who would have thought, a rookie would win the 2006 GP2 series, that too with ease?
The Ferrari-bound champ’s latest British GP win brought the record holder’s tally to 104 wins, which was celebrated worldwide. Fans had been manifesting a victory for so long, and finally, their prayers came true. On the other hand, Lewis Hamilton’s victory also brought out a simple yet beautiful story from the time he was dominating the junior categories of motorsport racing. With a delightful narrative, presenter Will Buxton shared a throwback from his first interactions with Hamilton.
Lewis Hamilton’s Ferrari connection before entering F1
Will Buxton has been active as a journalist in F1 for decades and has some experience as a driver himself. He got to know Lewis Hamilton before his F1 debut in 2007. “I’ve known Lewis for a very long time. I first met him in 2005, almost twenty years ago now. He had just come out of Formula 3 and was heading towards the GP2 Series,” Buxton shared with F1MAXMAAL.com. The presenter had witnessed the raw talent of the now seven-time world champion, and it was evident that he was special. Hamilton dominated a field that included future F1 drivers Adrian Sutil, Lucas di Grassi, and Sebastian Vettel among others.
Buxton further shared a story that would surely surprise the Ferrari fans. The young driver from Stevenage was “incredibly humble,” recalled the journalist. He added: “He was very kind, polite, and attentive” continuing, “He wanted to learn to speak French. I moved to Switzerland at the time, so I had to speak French as well.” Hamilton also asked Buxton how he could speak French. The reporter had told him that he used CDs, and so, young Lewis asked him if he could borrow those. Why? “He thought it was important to be able to talk to his engineers and mechanics in their own language,” concluded Will Buxton.
Even at a young age, Lewis had an impressive mindset. He understood the need to learn the common language of the team to make communication hassle-free. At that time Hamilton was racing for a French team called ASM Formula 3 which later transitioned to ART Grand Prix in 2006. Guess who the founders were? Frederic Vasseur and Nicholas Todt. Yes, the current ringmasters of Ferrari. “Maybe next year we’ll have an Italian-speaking Lewis at Ferrari!” remarked Will Buxton. This also shows, why Fred Vasseur might have opted for Lewis Hamilton. Their connection is not limited to F1 but goes beyond.
Fred Vasseur’s and Lewis Hamilton’s bond dates back to 2005
Lewis Hamilton and Fred Vasseur developed a close bond in the early 2000s. This was when Hamilton debuted in the Formula 3 series. His first team was ASM Formula 3 and the owner was Fred Vasseur. Yes, the current team principal of Ferrari. Hamilton later raced for ART in the 2006 GP2 series with Vassuer. And in both the categories Lewis Hamilton emerged glorious and victorious. That was the beginning of the future World Champion.
In 2007, they parted ways as Lewis debuted in F1 and Vasseur remained in the junior races to nurture young drivers. Maybe in the hope of making another Lewis Hamilton? 2006 was the last time the duo worked together. And after almost two decades, they’ll join forces at Ferrari next year. No doubt, they are as excited as the fans. There are a lot of expectations on the duo’s shoulders. As Lewis aims to win his eighth title, Fred Vasseur’s strategies could elevate the plan to the doorstep of success.
Will Buxton’s anecdote tells that Lewis Hamilton was destined for greatness. Since his developing years in the junior categories, he had portrayed valor and speed like no other. As he proceeds to pair up with his former boss, Lewis has some responsibilities to fulfill. Hamilton’s unparalleled skill with Vasseur’s strategic acumen could be the key to yet another glorious chapter in both Ferrari and Lewis Hamilton’s life.
Will Lewis Hamilton X Ferrari be a success? What’s your take? Share in the comments below.
