'Formula One saved my life', says Lewis Hamilton ahead of Miami Grand Prix

Lewis Hamilton has revealed Formula One saved his life.

Hamilton, 37, came from humble beginnings on a Stevenage council estate in the United Kingdom, with his father Anthony working multiple jobs to fund his son's formative years in motor racing.

The British driver has since gone on to become the most decorated driver in F1 history, winning more races than anyone else and taking a record-equalling seven world championships. He is also the grid's sole black driver.

Hamilton teamed up with NFL star Tom Brady at a fundraising event for the city's underprivileged children at Miami Beach Golf Club on Wednesday (4 May).

"The youth is everything, and something I am passionate about is getting children into STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects," said the Mercedes driver.

Lewis Hamilton on the barriers of Formula 1 for people from diverse backgrounds and trying to bring more diversity into the sport with the Hamilton commission: pic.twitter.com/DCgqFoIhlj

"Sport brings people together, and it saved my life. I am glad we are doing something for good."

Hamilton is gearing up for F1's maiden Miami Grand Prix, the first of two races in the United States this season, with Las Vegas joining the calendar next year.

The race will take place at the Hard Rock Stadium. Several A-list stars, including LeBron James, David Beckham, Ryan Reynolds, and Renee Zellweger, are set to attend.

Hamilton added: "I am so happy to be in Miami. This is the sport's first time here, and this event's anticipation has just sky-rocketed.

"Everyone is so excited, but there will be a little bit of nerves because there will be so many people here, and it is a new circuit."

After the opening four rounds, Hamilton, who is already 57 points behind