The support of his family has been a key factor in Lewis Hamilton’s journey from Stevenage to becoming one of the greatest drivers in Formula 1 history. His father, Anthony Hamilton, was a prominent figure in his early racing career, both in terms of financial support and management. His biological mother, Carmen Larbalestier, was also a significant figure in his childhood.
Carmen, later known as Carmen Lockhart after remarrying, is Hamilton’s mother and was married to Anthony Hamilton until they divorced when Lewis was a very young child. Hamilton has been very kind about her influence and her role during his formative years.
Who Is Carmen Larbalestier, Lewis Hamilton’s Mother?
Carmen Larbalestier is a white British woman. She and Anthony Hamilton had Lewis in Stevenage, Hertfordshire, in 1985. Lewis was born into a mixed-race family; Anthony has Grenadian heritage.
Lewis’ parents divorced when he was about two years old. He spent his childhood with his older half-sisters, Nicola and Samantha, and later with his father and stepmother, Linda, when he got more into competitive karting.
(Photo by Guido De Bortoli/LAT Images)
Hamilton has stressed that Carmen was a cherished and significant figure in his childhood. He spoke to The Guardian about his mother, who was “wonderful” and “so loving,” but who also didn’t always understand the racism and bullying he faced at school.
Anthony was closely associated with Lewis’s racing career, but Carmen was an important part of Hamilton’s family life. Hamilton has also commented on the fact that his relationship with his mother has grown closer as he has gotten older.
Why Did Lewis Hamilton Add Larbalestier to His Name?
Carmen’s importance to Hamilton is also reflected in his name.
In 2022, Hamilton revealed that he wanted to incorporate his mother’s maiden name, Larbalestier, into his full name. He said he was proud of the Hamilton family name but wanted his mother’s family name to go with it.
“I really want my mum’s name to continue on with the Hamilton name,” he said.
Hamilton said that Larbalestier would be added as a middle name, not replacing Hamilton. The announcement was seen as a tribute to Carmen and her family.
Hamilton has also been inspired by Carmen, who has a tattoo of the song. His “11:11” neck tattoo is believed to be a tribute to her birthday on November 11. The design was unveiled in 2025 and has been called a tribute to his mother.
Carmen is still an important part of Hamilton’s life today. Her tale is a significant piece of the family history behind the Ferrari driver’s remarkable Formula 1 career.