Lewis Hamilton: A legacy of fatherly support and family love

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Lewis Hamilton begins a new trip around the sun on this day - a big one - and will have likely blown out 41 candles by the end of it.

While Hamilton's outstanding track record in F1 is his own, the seven-time world champion has always made it a point of highlighting the crucial role played in his life by his father Anthony, a stalwart figure in his career.

Working multiple jobs to fund his son's racing pursuits during his formative years, Anthony Hamilton imparted not only a love for the sport but also resilience and determination.

The journey from Stevenage to the Formula 1 podiums was arduous, but Anthony's encouragement, coupled with his relentless work ethic, molded Lewis into the legend he is today.

Hamilton's success is a testament not just to his individual prowess, but to the enduring influence of a father's sacrifices and unwavering belief in a dream that has become a reality.

But behind every successful man is a strong woman, and Lewis had two: his mother Carmen and his mother-in-law Linda who have always been there in the tough and good times, along with Lewis' brother Nicolas.

In the picture here-above, a 15-year-old Hamilton is celebrated by his loved ones at the European and World Karting Championships in Italy.

And Italy is precisely where Lewis' career continues to unfold. Although he'll certainly be hoping for better times with Ferrari in 2026 - a crucial campaign for the Briton.

Forza!

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.