Lewis Hamilton’s Father Mourns Personal Loss: Breaks My Heart

by Athlon Sports
Lewis Hamilton’s Father Mourns Personal Loss: Breaks My Heart

Lewis Hamilton and Anthony Hamilton at the 2008 Chinese GP.

Mark Thompson/Getty Images

The father of seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton, Anthony Hamilton, has shared an emotional tribute following the sudden death of close friend and writer Mark Hodgkinson, revealing the profound personal impact of the loss.

In a heartfelt Instagram post, Anthony wrote: “In memory of Mark Hodgkinson, autobiographer, friend, husband, and father extraordinaire.”

Lewis Hamilton's father, Anthony Hamilton, at the 2008 F1 Brazil Grand Prix final practice.

Paul Gilham/Getty Images

He confirmed that Hodgkinson died suddenly from a pulmonary embolism at the age of 46. “A genuinely kind, patient, and generous man who somehow managed to put up with me for the past five years as I delayed and changed my mind on my own autobiography. I still can’t quite believe he’s gone,” Hamilton continued.

Hodgkinson was widely respected within British sports journalism, particularly for his work in tennis. His passing has prompted tributes from colleagues across the industry, highlighting both his professional excellence and his personal warmth.

Anthony Hamilton Feels Devastated for His Family

Anthony Hamilton’s tribute also reflected on the personal dimension of the loss, particularly the family Hodgkinson leaves behind.

“He leaves behind his wife and two young daughters, which is what breaks my heart most of all. Life is so precious and so fragile. I’m devastated for Mark, for his family, and for everyone who knew him and for those who were yet to meet this most beautiful soul of a man,” he concluded.

The message underscored not only Hodgkinson’s professional accomplishments but the personal bond he shared with the Hamilton family, particularly during work on Anthony’s autobiography project.

As tributes continue from colleagues and friends across the sports world, Anthony Hamilton’s words offer a glimpse into the profound grief felt by those closest to him.

All About Mark Hodgkinson: A Tribute To Renowned Tennis Correspondent

Mark Hodgkinson was regarded as one of Britain’s most respected tennis writers. The Telegraph described him as a “much-loved” correspondent, with Senior Sports Correspondent Tom Cary paying tribute following his passing.

Beyond daily reporting, Hodgkinson authored a bestselling biography of Andy Murray and wrote extensively on Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz, earning recognition for his thoughtful, deeply researched storytelling.

Novak Djokovic hugs his coach, Andy Murray, after the men's singles quarterfinal against Carlos Alcaraz at the 2025 Australian Open.

Lui Siu Wai/Xinhua via Getty Images

At the time of his death, he was continuing work on major sporting biographies, including Anthony Hamilton’s long-anticipated autobiography, reflecting his enduring passion for capturing the human stories behind elite athletes.

Through his writing, Hodgkinson chronicled not just victories and defeats, but the character and resilience that define sport. His legacy will remain in the pages he leaves behind and in the lives he touched.

Published:
by Athlon Sports