In a heartfelt revelation, former Formula 1 driver Anthony Davidson has expressed deep sadness over the mental health struggles endured by Lewis Hamilton during his early years in racing. The seven-time world champion, now one of the most iconic figures in motorsport, has used his global platform to speak candidly about mental health, encouraging others to confront and share their own struggles. Davidson, who has known Hamilton since they were children, has nothing but admiration for his former competitor’s openness but admits it’s painful to hear the details of Hamilton’s experiences.
Reflecting on their shared history, Davidson recalled how an eight-year-old Hamilton made waves in the British karting scene. “I’ve grown up in the kart tracks with Lewis. I’ve been around him my whole life,” Davidson said. “He came in as a trailblazer in our sport, an absolute trailblazer, and hats off to him.”
However, as Davidson continues to watch Hamilton’s career unfold, he admits feeling a sense of sadness over the revelations surrounding Hamilton’s mental health battles, especially during his formative years in karting. “It saddens me, in many ways, to think of all those days that I spent with him at the kart tracks, that he was going through that, but now he’s in a position where he feels like he can talk about it,” Davidson shared.
The 45-year-old former Super Aguri driver added that while it’s disheartening to learn of Hamilton’s struggles, he is immensely proud of the British superstar for taking the brave step of speaking out. “For now, to be talking openly about mental health, and it saddens me, in many ways. I’m kind of proud he has come out and touched on mental health.”
Davidson himself knows the burden that such struggles can carry. He admitted to experiencing severe anxiety issues during his time in Formula 1. “I’ve suffered with anxiety issues, like real crippling anxiety in my days as a driver,” he revealed, acknowledging the shared challenges faced by those in high-pressure sports.
Hamilton, now 39, has not only dominated the racing world but has also become a beacon of hope and a hero for those struggling with mental health. Recently, a historic British charity honored the Mercedes driver for his courage in addressing such a significant issue. Hamilton’s transparency has allowed fans to relate to him on a deeper level, seeing that even someone at the pinnacle of success faces similar battles.
Davidson’s words underscore the importance of Hamilton’s efforts, highlighting how critical it is for influential figures to normalize conversations around mental health. For many, Hamilton’s openness is a reminder that even the most successful athletes are human, and it’s okay to seek help and speak out.
