Breaking News:Lewis Hamilton Ignored Mercedes Team Orders for Fun Go-Karting Session in Barbados…Read more Lewis Hamilton
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Lewis Hamilton, the illustrious seven-time Formula 1 world champion, dedicated a considerable part of his career to Mercedes, achieving groundbreaking success with them over 12 seasons. Between 2013 and 2024, he secured six out of his seven titles there, cementing his status as one of the sport’s most accomplished drivers. With an impressive tally of 84 Grand Prix victories and numerous pole positions under his belt, he set multiple records along the way—including sharing the all-time record for world championships alongside Michael Schumacher. Now poised for a new chapter in his career starting in 2025 at Ferrari, Hamilton is aiming to claim an unprecedented eighth title.
In addition to his racing accomplishments, Hamilton’s impact reaches far beyond the Formula 1 paddock, serving as an inspiration for young drivers from diverse backgrounds. One of these aspiring talents is Zane Maloney, a promising competitor in Formula E and a former champion of British F4. Hailing from Barbados, Maloney has made significant strides in motorsport by achieving victories in Formula 2 and establishing a strong reputation within the industry.
Maloney recently recounted an unforgettable encounter with Hamilton at a special event held at Bushy Park in Barbados when he was just 14. This touching story offers a glimpse into Hamilton’s character, highlighting his readiness to put aside high-profile obligations to connect with aspiring drivers. In a conversation exclusive to GPFans’ Jim Kimberley, Maloney shared how Hamilton disregarded his team’s instructions and joined young racers on the track, leaving an indelible impression on the budding driver.
The story starts in 2017 when Maloney, a promising young talent at just 14 years old, was racing in Barbados and advancing his karting career before pursuing further opportunities in the United States. Around this time, Barbados hosted the Top Gear Festival—a gathering of various cars and legendary racers displaying their talents. Among them was Hamilton, who was then dominating F1 with Mercedes. As one of the event’s main attractions, he brought along a Mercedes F1 car to drive alongside other famous vehicles like Radicals.
Although Hamilton was set to wave the green and chequered flags at the event, his curiosity piqued when he heard about local go-kart racing taking place at the venue. Initially, his team had reservations about him participating in any activities that might pose a risk to his health—especially with an upcoming Formula 1 race on the horizon. They were particularly concerned about potential rib injuries. Nonetheless, once informed of this opportunity, Hamilton’s resolve to enjoy himself and connect with the local motorsport community became evident.
“I was supposed to wave the green and chequered flags,” Maloney remembered. “When we inquired with his team about whether he could drive, they replied, ‘No way since he has an upcoming F1 race and cannot risk injuring his ribs.’ Upon hearing this, Lewis immediately came over to us and asked, ‘Do you have a go-kart?'”
The young racers had access to a go-kart adorned with Mercedes branding, prepared for an exciting session. Despite knowing his team’s concerns, Hamilton decided to proceed. “He reassured them by saying, ‘I got this; I’m going to be fine,’ and secured a rib protector,” Maloney recounted. Enthusiastic about driving again, the Formula 1 champion soon joined the aspiring racers on the rain-drenched track.
The rain didn’t faze Hamilton at all. Undeterred by the downpour, he hopped into his kart and instantly showcased his remarkable talent. “Despite the heavy rain, which didn’t require him to do so, he was overtaking everyone effortlessly—slowing down just to race them and even waving,” Maloney remarked. This iconic moment is immortalized in a well-known YouTube video featuring helmet-cam footage of Hamilton enjoying himself as he engages with fellow racers—all while maintaining impressive speed and precision despite the challenging conditions created by the wet track.
As the session wrapped up, Hamilton parked his kart and leaped out, eager to wave the checkered flag for the young racers. For Maloney, racing alongside Hamilton was a dream come true. “It was just an incredible day,” he reflected. “To be on track with Lewis, someone I’ve always looked up to—it felt surreal.” He added that even from those initial moments, Hamilton’s talent was evident: “You could immediately see his skill; right from lap one in wet conditions, he nailed it. It really made for an exceptional day.”
Racing alongside Hamilton was a pivotal moment for Maloney. Despite being on the track together, Hamilton displayed his fun-loving nature by playfully racing with Maloney while effortlessly demonstrating his exceptional driving skills. “Someone might have mentioned to him who is seriously pursuing racing versus just having some fun,” Maloney recalled. “He came up next to me and started goofing around as we raced—it was really cool.”
This experience profoundly impacted Maloney, solidifying Hamilton’s reputation as not just a legendary driver but also an approachable and motivational presence in the motorsport world. By choosing to disregard his team’s hesitations, jump into a go-kart, and interact with young racers, Hamilton demonstrated his deep love for racing and sincere wish to inspire future drivers. For Zane Maloney, that rainy day in Barbados stands out as an indelible moment in his racing careerBreaking News:Lewis Hamilton Ignored Mercedes Team Orders for Fun Go-Karting Session in Barbados…Read more.
