Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time Formula 1 world champion, has long shared a profound affection for Brazil, a country closely tied to his admiration for the late Ayrton Senna. During the 2024 São Paulo Grand Prix, Hamilton honored Senna by driving the iconic 1990 McLaren MP4/5B, deepening his connection with Brazilian fans. Speaking at the 2025 Canadian Grand Prix weekend, Hamilton announced his intention to visit Brazil in the near future, stirring enthusiasm among supporters.
Hamilton remarked on his longing for Brazil, saying,
“I miss Brazil so much. I can’t tell you how much, I’ve been researching online the places to visit. I wanna go soon. I don’t wanna say where I’m going but (laughs), I’m going to go soon. Yeah, I miss, I miss seeing Brazilians.”
—Lewis Hamilton, Formula 1 Driver
At the 2024 São Paulo Grand Prix, Hamilton secured a tenth-place finish while racing for the Mercedes team based in Brackley, further cementing his ongoing presence in the country’s racing events.
Challenges and Progress with Ferrari’s SF-25 at Canadian Grand Prix
While planning his Brazilian visit, Hamilton faced significant challenges with his current Ferrari SF-25 during the qualifying session at the Canadian Grand Prix. Despite managing to place fifth by the end of Q3, Hamilton expressed frustration with the car’s performance, describing the vehicle as lacking harmony and fluidity.
He explained his struggle with the car’s handling:
“This car, it’s like someone that can’t dance, and someone that has no rhythm. So it’s like trying to get someone that doesn’t have rhythm to have rhythm. It’s very very difficult. So, that’s how it feels with this car.”
—Lewis Hamilton, Formula 1 Driver
Nevertheless, Hamilton acknowledged incremental improvement:
“I feel we’ve progressed coming into today, so that was a positive.”
—Lewis Hamilton, Formula 1 Driver
With nine rounds completed in the 2025 Formula 1 season and Round 10 unfolding at the Gilles Villeneuve circuit, Hamilton currently holds sixth place in the drivers‘ championship with 71 points. His Ferrari teammate Charles Leclerc is ranked fifth with 94 points, illustrating the tight competition within the team.
Hamilton Set to Start Canadian Grand Prix from Third Row, Eyes Podium
The SF-25’s handling issues have repeatedly been a sticking point for Hamilton this season. Despite this, he has secured a starting position on the third row for the Canadian Grand Prix, setting his sights on a strong finish. He will begin the race behind rivals George Russell, Max Verstappen, Oscar Piastri, and Andrea Kimi Antonelli, who occupy the front grid slots.
Hamilton’s determination and experience will be critical as he attempts to challenge these contenders, with the Canadian Grand Prix offering an opportunity to close the gap in the championship standings. His upcoming visit to Brazil also holds emotional significance, as his connection to the country remains a powerful source of inspiration and motivation.