Damson Idris Compares Hamilton's Ferrari Mentality to Michael Jordan

Actor Damson Idris says Lewis Hamilton carries the same singular drive that defined Michael Jordan's greatness, describing the Ferrari star's mentality as a competition against no one but himself. After two years immersed in the Formula 1 paddock while filming F1 The Movie, Idris offered a rare glimpse into Hamilton's relentless focus on legacy and why the seven-time champion remains fiercely motivated.

Why it matters:

Hamilton's Ferrari chapter is ultimately about legacy, and Idris's view from inside the paddock confirms the seven-time champion is chasing something bigger than race wins. His "me against me" approach mirrors the career arcs of all-time greats who define their eras through obsession with craft rather than rivalry alone.

The details:

• Jordan-Level Focus: Appearing on the F1 Beyond The Grid podcast, Idris said Hamilton "has that Michael Jordan thing," explaining that he is not in competition with anyone else. The actor likened this dedication to that of Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Daniel Day-Lewis.
• Close Bond: Idris, who starred as rookie Joshua Pearce in the blockbuster, grew close to Hamilton during filming, where the Briton served as an executive producer. The pair first met at The Fashion Awards before Idris attended his first race in Budapest.
• No Joke: Idris recalled almost greeting Hamilton casually in Budapest before realizing the driver was wearing headphones and locked in pre-race focus. "That's when I realised this is not a joke for him," he said.
• Barcelona Text: Following Hamilton's recent victory in Barcelona, Idris sent a congratulatory message and received an excited reply, with Hamilton still sounding thrilled by the sport he loves.
• Sequel Buzz: Released in June 2025, F1 The Movie has grossed over $634 million worldwide, and talks of a sequel are already circulating.

What's next:

The overwhelming success of F1 The Movie has locked in Hollywood's deepening ties with Formula 1, and a sequel would only build on that. For Hamilton, the focus stays on turning that same passion into results with Ferrari as he keeps stretching an already historic career.