What led to Lewis Hamilton becoming “public enemy number one’ in Brazil after 2008 Brazilian GP?

Lewis Hamilton’s fanbase extends across the globe. The British driver made his debut in 2007, capturing the hearts of audiences worldwide by breaking multiple records throughout his career. He transcended being just an athlete, evolving into an inspirational role model for many young drivers.

However, it’s a reality that not everyone will like you, and some are bound to hold unfavorable opinions for various reasons. In an interview, Hamilton openly shared his experience of feeling the public’s hatred towards him on one occasion, back in 2008, when he won the Brazilian Grand Prix.

Lewis Hamilton recalls turbulent time after 2008 Brazilian GP

Back in 2008, when Hamilton clinched the world title from Felipe Massa on the last corner of the final lap of the last race of the season at the Brazilian GP, the audience was fairly disappointed.

As a Brazilian citizen, Massa was their personal favourite. Despite being a strong contender, Hamilton had to face hatred towards him from the public at the Interlagos. However, all of these years later, Hamilton also became one of Brazil’s favourite drivers. The country is now the second home of the seven-time World Champion after he was awarded honorary citizenship in 2022.

When asked about his experience back then, Hamilton, ahead of the 2023 Sao Paulo Grand Prix weekend. replied with “Yeah, so it’s been a special race for me,”.

“I mean, I won my first World Championship here. It was kind of crazy back then because I kind of felt like public enemy number one. I was racing against Felipe.”

“But the growth that I’ve felt here and the reception that I’ve had here, the amazing support…”

Hamilton becomes honorary citizen of Brazil

In front of millions of fans, Hamilton received honorary citizenship at Brazil’s Congress chamber in Brasilia.

Congressman Andre Figueiredo was the first individual to make the suggestion last November after Hamilton won the Brazilian GP for the third time at the Interlagos Circuit. Hamilton carried a green and yellow Brazilian flag on his victory lap and at the podium to rejoice with his fans.

He said, being extremely emotional and happy, “It is a great honour to get this title today. Now I can finally say I am one of you. I love Brazil, I have always loved Brazil.”

Did Hamilton deserve all the hatred towards him in 2008 at the Interlagos Circuit? Tell us in the comment section below.