Akkodis Unplugged: Lewis Hamilton - Beyond the Finish Line

An exclusive farewell interview with the 7-time World Champion as he reflects on passion, technology, innovation, and the future.

4 minutes

5th of November, 2024

Passion: The Driving Force Behind Success

Starting with a childhood dream, Lewis Hamilton’s dedication to Formula One is unparalleled. Lewis Hamilton's love for racing started as a child. He recalls sitting with his father, watching a Grand Prix at just 4 or 5 years old. That moment, he says, was when he knew his future was on the track. His passion was the fuel that led him to become one of the greatest drivers in Formula One history. This has propelled him to seven world titles, cementing his place in racing history.

Data: The Key to Staying Competitive

In Formula One, data is the lifeblood of performance. Over a race weekend, data is constantly analyzed - tire temperatures, lap times, fuel consumption - all of it is used to fine-tune the car and the driver’s performance. It is a silent powerhouse that has helped Lewis and his team maintain their competitive edge over the years. 

Innovation That Pushes Boundaries

Formula One is synonymous with innovation.. From groundbreaking aerodynamic designs to mechanical breakthroughs, the sport is always pushing forward. Over the years, Lewis has witnessed the introduction of revolutionary ideas, such as the double diffuser or the dynamic adjustment systems. Formula One never stands still, and that constant drive for improvement has been key to Lewis’s success.

The Pursuit of Perfection

Despite technological advancements, Lewis is the first to admit that perfection in Formula One is elusive. There is always something to improve. For every race, the car is analyzed down to the smallest detail, with the aim of finding those extra tenths of a second. This mindset of continuous improvement is what keeps teams like Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team ahead of the competition. Motorsports not only influence automotive engineering but inspire advancements in fields like Akkodis' Green & Fly aircraft and hydrogen-powered solutions, moving towards sustainable mobility.

Aerospace and Formula One: Precision Meets Performance

Lewis has long been fascinated by the overlap between Formula One and aerospace technology. From heat-resistant materials used around the car’s exhaust to the precision engineering that both industries rely on, the similarities are striking. For Lewis, these connections are a reminder of how far-reaching the influence of motorsports can be.

Lewis is excited about the future of green technologies, particularly hydrogen-powered vehicles like Akkodis' Green & Fly aircraft. "I think hydrogen is the future. Seeing innovations like Akkodis' Green & Fly aircraft shows how we can push the boundaries of sustainable mobility," he shares, expressing his enthusiasm for on sustainable mobility.

The Future of Racing: Sustainability and Innovation

Looking ahead to 2026, Formula One is making a historic shift to 100% sustainable fuels. For Lewis Hamilton, this transition is about more than just racing—it’s a call for global action on sustainability. As motorsport embraces biofuels and electrification, it aims to lead by example, preserving the thrill and power fans cherish.

At Akkodis, sustainability isn’t just a goal; it’s a commitment. Partnering with Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1, we’re driving initiatives toward Net Zero by 2030, leveraging our expertise to support sustainable practices across industries.

Resilience and Confidence: The Champion’s Mindset

Lewis’s journey to becoming a 7-time World Champion highlights resilience over mere talent. For him, success requires perseverance, bouncing back from failures, and an unwavering spirit. This mindset not only defines his career but also shapes his approach to every challenge on and off the track.

Confidence has been equally vital but not always easy. Throughout his career, Lewis faced doubts but has consistently rebuilt his confidence, learning from setbacks. This resilience and adaptability have been essential to his enduring success at the top of his game.

Making the Incredible Happen

Reflecting on his journey with Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1, Lewis emphasizes the power of teamwork, resilience, and shared passion in achieving the extraordinary. “For me, it’s about a unified drive to make the incredible happen,” he notes. This outlook has defined his career and will guide him forward.

As Lewis Hamilton bids farewell, his legacy with Mercedes remains influential. His dedication, resilience, and pursuit of excellence will continue inspiring others, and though his time with the Team concludes, his impact on Formula One and beyond endures.

 

Hydrogen is the future. Seeing innovations like Akkodis' Green & Fly aircraft shows how we can push the boundaries of sustainable mobility.

Lewis Hamilton on embracing green technology.