Lewis Hamilton Overruled Ron Dennis for 'Top Gear' Appearance
As a rookie in 2007, Lewis Hamilton had to personally overrule McLaren boss Ron Dennis to drive the standard Suzuki Liana on BBC's *Top Gear*, after Dennis insisted he use a Mercedes. The story highlights Hamilton's early determination and passion for the iconic show, where he later returned in 2013 to set a near-record lap time.
A young Lewis Hamilton had to overrule his then-boss, McLaren team principal Ron Dennis, to appear on the BBC's Top Gear and drive its standard 'Reasonably-Priced Car'. The stand-off, which highlighted Hamilton's determination even as a rookie, was only resolved when Hamilton personally insisted on participating in the iconic segment.
Why it matters:
This anecdote offers a rare glimpse into the early dynamics between a future seven-time World Champion and one of F1's most formidable team leaders. It underscores Hamilton's strong personal brand and independence, traits that would define his career, even as a newcomer navigating the corporate pressures of a top team like McLaren.
The Details:
- Hamilton's first appearance was in 2007, following his narrow championship defeat in his rookie season. Ron Dennis insisted Hamilton should drive a Mercedes SLR McLaren instead of the show's standard Suzuki Liana, arguing Hamilton was "a Mercedes man" due to McLaren's partnership with the German manufacturer.
- The Top Gear production team, led by executive producer Andy Wilman, argued the entire point of the segment was the standardized car, but Dennis was initially unmoved.
- The deadlock was broken by Hamilton himself. Having grown up watching the show, he saw it as a "red letter day" and simply told Dennis, "I'm doing Top Gear." His lap, set in wet conditions, was impressive but not a record time.
- Hamilton returned for a second attempt in 2013, his first year with the Mercedes F1 team. He made a deal with the producers to only come if the track was dry. When conditions were right, he "blitzed" his previous time, securing second place on the all-time leaderboard, just behind Daniel Ricciardo.
Between the lines:
The story reveals the cultural clash between F1's tightly controlled corporate environment and a globally popular entertainment show. It also shows Hamilton's authentic passion for motorsport culture beyond the F1 paddock. Wilman's recollection of Hamilton as a "kid from Stevenage" excitedly discussing car modifications post-filming contrasts sharply with the global superstar image he holds today, highlighting a more accessible chapter in his career.