Lewis Hamilton is known for much more than his achievements in Formula 1. The seven-time world champion also got a unique style, having tattoos on his back, chest, arms, neck, and legs.
However, Hamilton’s body art isn’t just about looks. The Ferrari driver explained that many of his tattoos are a reflection of his Christian beliefs, family, personal experiences, and people who had an impact on his life.
Hamilton has previously stated, “I love my ink” and that his tattoos are not just random designs, but have meaning.
What Does Lewis Hamilton’s Back Tattoo Mean?
The most popular tattoo on Hamilton is the large tattoo on his back. It has a large cross with angel wings and the words “Still I Rise” are part of the design.
(Photo by Artur Widak/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Hamilton told GQ that Tupac Shakur was his favorite rapper and that’s why he came up with the idea for the cross. He then developed the design by adding the angel wings. The tattoo was said to have been done in one sitting, taking about 10 hours.
The “Still I Rise” phrase is from the famous poem by Maya Angelou and is especially apt for Hamilton’s own career. The phrase is a symbol of resilience and overcoming adversity, a theme that has been a constant throughout Hamilton’s career, from his early days in karting to his seven F1 championships.
The cross and wings also symbolize Hamilton’s ability to rise above life’s challenges, as he has explained.
His Christian faith is seen in other places throughout his body. He has a religious sleeve on his right arm featuring a guardian angel, the Sacred Heart and Michelangelo’s Pietà, while “God is love” is tattooed on his neck.
Lewis Hamilton’s Other Tattoos and Their Meanings
Hamilton’s chest is adorned with a compass, a symbol that holds a special significance for his faith. He said that church gives him direction, and the compass is a symbol of that direction. He also has “family” and “faith” tattooed on his shoulders and “powerful beyond measure” on his chest, which is a quote from writer Marianne Williamson.
His tattoos also pay tribute to members of his family. One design shows his father, Anthony Hamilton, carrying him up as a youngster. A clock behind the image symbolizes the passage of time and the significance of that childhood memory. It was one of his most memorable experiences with his father, Hamilton said.
He also has a rose dedicated to his aunt, who passed away from cancer, and an eagle on his neck, which was inspired by a nickname he was given as a child by a long-time friend.
One of his more recent tattoos is “11:11” on his neck. The numbers have been associated with his mother, Carmen Larbalestier, who was born on November 11.
Hamilton’s tattoos are more of a visual autobiography than a series of fashion statements, and they tell of his faith, family, influences and the strength that has been a hallmark of his extraordinary F1 career.