During his 12-year tenure at Mercedes, Lewis Hamilton has been increasingly dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion within motorsport, extending his efforts to involve the Mercedes team itself.
Hamilton’s commitment to addressing the lack of diversity in motorsport was evident through the establishment of the Hamilton Commission. Together with Mercedes, he launched the Ignite charity, aimed at providing individuals from diverse backgrounds with enhanced opportunities to pursue careers in STEM subjects.
Initially collaborating closely with Hamilton’s personal foundation, Mission 44, which targets the underrepresentation of racial diversity in STEM teaching staff across the UK, Ignite has now been integrated into Mission 44.
Looking ahead to his move to Ferrari in 2025, Hamilton emphasized the importance of diversity initiatives in his discussions with Ferrari chairman John Elkann. He expressed optimism about Ferrari’s enthusiasm to engage in this critical work.
Reflecting on Mercedes’ transformation into a more diverse organization under his leadership, Hamilton expressed pride in the progress made since 2020. Notably, he highlighted the establishment of a diverse HR group, affirming his confidence in the sustainability of these initiatives beyond his tenure.
Hamilton acknowledged the ongoing challenges within the sport and affirmed his commitment to collaborate with Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali to drive further progress.
Since its inception in December 2021, Mission 44 has raised £11.2 million in donations, with Hamilton personally contributing £7 million toward its cause and pledging a total of £20 million.
In its inaugural year, the charity disbursed grants to 18 institutions, supporting a range of diversity efforts in education and employment across the UK, with plans for expansion into South Africa, the United States, and Brazil.