Ever since his first race in McLaren and his move on reigning world champion Fernando Alonso in the very first corner, the world knew Lewis Hamilton was a special talent. Select few drivers can boast about the fact that they stood on the podium in their very first race. The Mercedes star answers the question of what really got him into F1.

103 race wins, 7 world titles and 191 podium finishes later, Hamilton is undoubtedly one of F1’s greats. The Mercedes driver has risen against the odds to the very top of the sport. He’s also the only black driver to drive a Formula 1 car, period.

But what got the modern-day great to pursue a career in F1? Lewis Hamilton answered the question in an interview with BBC’s Black Britain show in 1997.

12-year-old Hamilton said, “The reason I want to be a Formula 1 driver is because it’s got a lot of speed in it. When I went to Belgium, and I saw the actual speed that they are doing, it was amazing because you don’t actually think about it when you’re watching TV and my car feels really powerful when I’m in it, but, imagine being in a Formula 1 car. Must be very powerful that.” He definitely craved the adrenaline rush since his childhood.

37-Year-Old Lewis Hamilton Reveals the ONLY Scenario That’ll Get Him Behind the Wheel of His Car

Following his dreams was worth it for the 37-year-old. He will be aiming to compete for his 8th world championship next year after a challenging season with the Silver Arrows.

Lewis Hamilton acknowledges that 2022 was one of his toughest seasons in F1

2022 was the first time in Lewis Hamilton’s career that he did not win a single race in the entire year. Subsequently, it was no surprise that the Mercedes driver claimed it was one of his toughest seasons in F1. However, he revealed the one thing that kept him going through the difficult times.

Hamilton said, “This year was not the greatest,” He continued, “It is probably up there with the top-three worst seasons. But in terms of how the team stayed united, there have been lots of pluses.”

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The 7-time champion also added that despite not winning a race this season, there were many instances that felt like a win because of Mercedes’ terrible start.

He then revealed the one thing that kept him going through an enduring season. Lewis said, “I was definitely not expecting what would come after, in terms of the amazing support from fans. The general love I have experienced is I think what got me through the year.”

WATCH THIS STORY: Who is Angela Cullen? Fun facts about Lewis Hamilton’s blonde assistant!

Lewis will hope for the Brackley-based team to roll out a competitive car next year. He will be itching to challenge Max Verstappen at the top and fight for his record championship. Can Mercedes and Lewis bounce back from an underwhelming last season?