With F1 heading to Interlagos in Brazil, there is much to look out for over the weekend and many drivers to keep an eye on. While the obvious highlight of the weekend is the battle for the title between McLaren and Red Bull, the contest will also hold special significance for Fernando Alonso, as he cherishes memories of winning his first title on the track nearly 20 years ago.
Apart from these, there is another driver who has been in the spotlight ahead of Brazil. Lewis Hamilton, who has experienced an underwhelming run this year, is making the headlines as fans try to decipher the mystery behind the seven-time champion’s citizenship.
Lewis Hamilton’s Connection With Brazil
Ever since joining Ferrari, Hamilton has largely met with a rocky fate, where, despite having the skill and credentials, he has been unable to convert them into better finishes. Though the British driver has seen his struggles, he is still a fan-favorite, especially in Brazil.
Hamilton won his first title at Brazil in 2008, and the dramatic finish was etched in fans’ memories for years to come. Along with this, Hamilton was also a massive fan of F1 legend and Brazilian hero, Aryton Senna.
Now, the 40-year-old has paid his respect to Senna on several occasions, often by donning tribute helmets for the legendary driver. His gesture won the hearts of several Brazilian fans, especially after his 2021 win at São Paulo, where he waved the home flag. As he honored Senna on the podium, he termed it one of the most special moments of his career.
Is Hamilton A Brazilian Citizen?
In the following year, the Brazilian National Congress decided to honor the Briton with an honorary citizenship. While the accolade did not grant him the same rights as a Brazilian citizen, Hamilton admitted it was a great honor.
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Shortly after the ceremony, Hamilton said, “I have so many amazing memories of Brazil. And particularly 2021. Knowing you guys would cheer me on the way was one of the most special moments of my entire life. I can’t wait for us to continue to strive ahead.”
When asked about the citizenship ahead of his upcoming appearance in Brazil, Hamilton said, “I became a citizen. I’ve never heard of that happening. I don’t know of anybody that’s been given a citizenship like that.”
Soon we will be sprinting 💪 pic.twitter.com/7K0uaGwPLc
— Scuderia Ferrari HP (@ScuderiaFerrari) November 7, 2025
So, yes, Hamilton certainly has a Brazilian citizenship, but not the one that grants him a passport, and has an honorary one instead.
As for his numbers in Brazil, Hamilton has raced 17 times on the track and has three wins to his name, and his very first title championship with McLaren. And after the practice session in Brazil, the British driver came in 19th with a gap of 1.551 seconds over the leader, Lando Norris.
