(Motorsport-Total.com) – On the occasion of the 2024 Monaco Grand Prix, where McLaren made its 1000th start in the Formula 1 World Championship, Lewis Hamilton spoke about his close connection to the team from Woking. The seven-time world champion emphasized that McLaren and especially former team principal Ron Dennis played a crucial role in his career.
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“I will always have a special fondness for McLaren,” Hamilton explains. “I am incredibly grateful to Ron. Ron met me in 1995 and changed my life. I wouldn’t be here today if he hadn’t given me that chance back then,” Hamilton continues.
He also recalls that his family originally did not have the financial means for a career in motorsport. “We couldn’t afford it, unlike most other drivers here. He opened the door for me and gave me an opportunity,” says the Brit.
His time at McLaren was accompanied by many formative experiences. At the same time, Hamilton admits that from today’s perspective not everything went ideally. “Looking back, there were many things missing. The support and various other things a young driver might need. But I learned a lot during that time,” he explains.
Respect for the development under Zak Brown
After his move to Mercedes at the end of 2012, McLaren went through several difficult years. All the more, he is pleased to observe the team’s recent development. Hamilton particularly praises McLaren CEO Zak Brown, who has led the team back to the top in recent years.
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“I have great respect for Zak. When he came, many people were negative. He was mocked and told he wouldn’t make it. But he brought everyone along,” says Hamilton.
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The Brit is impressed by Brown’s leadership style and the current team lineup: “I like people who swim against the tide. They have two great drivers, and I look forward to seeing how they will continue to be successful.”
McLaren celebrated its 1000th World Championship race in Formula 1 at the Monaco Grand Prix in early June 2026. For Hamilton, the team where he made his debut in 2007 and won his first world championship title in 2008 remains an important part of his career story many years after his departure.
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