Lewis Hamilton to change name to include’s mum’s surname

Seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton says he’ll change his name to include his mother Carmen’s surname. 

The Mercedes driver will not change his current surname of Hamilton, nor will he create a new double-barrelled one, but will instead add his mother’s surname ‘Larbalestier’ as a middle name. 

Speaking to fans ahead of the upcoming season, Hamilton said: “I am really proud of my family’s name. My mum’s name is Larbalestier and I’m just about to put that in my name. 

“I really want her name to continue on with the Hamilton name.

“I don’t really fully understand the whole idea when people get married then the woman loses her name.”

The 37-year-old revealed he is currently “working on” the name change, though it will not be finalised before the Bahrain Grand Prix this Sunday. 

Hamilton’s parents separated when he was just two years old and he lived with his mother and half-sisters Samantha and Nicola until he was 12. 

The iconic driver has long been an advocate for equality. Last year, the Brit urged the sport to do more for women’s rights and the LGBTQ+ community ahead of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. 

The British driver is the most successful in F1 history, having won more races and achieved more podiums than any other competitor. 

There were question marks surrounding his participation for the new season after he controversially missed out on a record eighth world title at the end of the last campaign. 

Eventual champion Max Verstappen overtook the Brit on the final lap in Abu Dhabi, following ex-race director Michael Masi’s decision to allow specific cars to unlap themselves.

However, Hamilton has now committed his future to Mercedes and will drive for the Silver Arrows for the tenth straight year. 

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