Synopsis
The definitive biography of the greatest Formula One driver of all time, now including an exclusive chapter on the 2025 season.
‘Timeless, illuminating and necessary’ – Mirin Fader, author of the New York Times bestsellers Giannis and Dream
At the pinnacle of motorsports, a humble young man from Stevenage has risen to become the greatest Formula One driver of all time. Lewis Hamilton’s journey from remote-controlled car hobbyist to seven-time world champion is evidently the stuff of modern legend. Michael Sawyer follows Hamilton’s path and we witness Hamilton’s single-minded determination to reach the top along the way, even as he challenged racial barriers and opposition at every turn.
Beyond his unparalleled on-track exploits – equalling the records held by the legendary Michael Schumacher – Hamilton has used his platform to advocate for social justice, environmental sustainability and diversity, inspiring the next generation by not only encouraging them to pursue their own dreams but by also extending his legacy and impact beyond the track.
As Hamilton nears the twilight of his racing career, this electrifying book by acclaimed professor of African American Literature and Culture, and lifelong Formula One fan, Michael Sawyer, examines his lasting legacy.
Sir Lewis culminates with Hamilton’s potential final act – chasing a record-setting eighth world title at the wheel of the iconic Ferrari team – and shows how he continues to set new benchmarks for greatness.
Details
05 March 2026
9781035071661Reviews
Sir Lewis is an engrossing, deeply detailed portrait of a powerful role model that transcends sport. This book is timeless, illuminating and necessary
Michael Sawyer’s riveting narrative brings fuller context to the rise of Lewis Hamilton as the first Black, winningest race car driver, and worldwide tastemaker. This is a must read
Gripping storytelling . . . This is a book that I will read again and again to be entertained and challenged
With Sir Lewis, Michael E. Sawyer has given us one of the most probative books on Formula One since Tom Rubython’s The Life of Senna . . . a deeply engaged, knowledgeable study of Hamilton’s impact on the art and technology of Formula One racing, we discover how that impact reflects profound global socio-political transformation
