Hamilton’s heartfelt tribute after disabled brother’s BTCC breakthrough

Lewis Hamilton has paid a moving tribute to his younger brother Nicolas after the disabled driver secured his first-ever motorsport podium in the British Touring Car Championship. Nicolas, who competes with cerebral palsy, won the Jack Sears Trophy at Snetterton for EXCELR8 Motorsport, becoming the first disabled driver to claim a BTCC podium since his debut in 2015.

Why it matters:

Nicolas Hamilton’s breakthrough is a powerful reminder that motorsport can be made more inclusive. His journey — from being told he would never walk to standing on a national touring car podium — challenges long-standing barriers for disabled athletes. The achievement also coincided with Lewis Hamilton’s second-place finish at the Canadian Grand Prix, amplifying the emotional resonance of the moment.

The details:

• Nicolas finished 17th, 16th, and 16th across the three Snetterton races, but consistent performance earned him the Jack Sears Trophy — awarded to drivers who have never scored a BTCC podium before the season.
• He became emotional after the result, saying: “I could happily hang my boots, gloves and helmet up after this weekend knowing I have achieved the dream of a little boy who was told he would never walk.”
• Lewis Hamilton posted a heartfelt message on social media: “I could not be more proud of my brother … Motorsport is not built to be inclusive. Despite the barriers and the people who told him it wasn’t possible, he never stopped.”
• The seven-time F1 champion called Nicolas an inspiration, noting that his brother’s fight and adaptation prove doubters wrong.

What’s next:

Nicolas Hamilton’s first trophy is expected to inspire further conversations around accessibility in racing. While he remains committed to his BTCC career, his victory has already resonated deeply within the disabled community and the wider motorsport world. Lewis summed it up: “For all those in the disabled community, hopefully this will provide further inspiration of what is possible.”