Lewis Hamilton changing his name to include mother’s surname Larbalestier, hopes to race with it

Lewis Hamilton says he wants his mother’s maiden name Larbalestier to “continue on with the Hamilton name”; Hamilton, 37, doesn’t expect name change for this season but wants it “soon”; Formula 1 2022 season starts with Bahrain GP this weekend, live on Sky Sports F1

Sir Lewis Hamilton with his mother Carmen after he was knighted last December

Lewis Hamilton has revealed that he is in the process of changing his name so that it incorporates his mother’s surname Larbalestier.

Hamilton, speaking at the 2022 Dubai Expo before he begins his fight for a record eighth Formula 1 world championship this weekend at the Bahrain GP, said he wants his “mum to continue on with the Hamilton name”.

“I’m really proud of my family’s name, Hamilton,” said the 37-year-old. “None of you might know that my mum’s name is Larbalestier and I am just about to put that in my name.

“I don’t fully understand the idea that when people get married the woman loses their name.

“I really want my mum to continue on with the Hamilton name.”

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Naomi Schiff and Lewis Hamilton look back on their first meeting 12 years ago in South Africa. You can see the full interview on ‘Any Driven Monday’ at 6pm on the Sky Sports F1 YouTube channel.

Hamilton’s mother Carmen Larbalestier, now Lockhart, separated from his father Anthony Hamilton when the future F1 world champion was two years old.

Hamilton mostly grew up with his father and stepmother Linda, and has frequently highlighted his family bond in recent years.

“It would mean the world to my family [to win an eighth title],” said Hamilton.

Asked when the name change could be complete, Hamilton added: “Hopefully soon, I don’t know if it will be this weekend… but we are working on it.”

More to follow.