Lewis Hamilton – brilliant, tenacious and often misunderstood – is the most successful British Formula One driver in history. At his best, he is untouchably quick, especially over one lap and on perilous wet tracks. These skills have combined with his weapons-grade willpower to destroy all contemporaries.

Having already equalled Michael Schumacher's record of seven world titles, he joined Ferrari in 2025 with just one peak to conquer. If he wins the championship and becomes the greatest-ever F1 driver, he will have done so against the odds, which is the way he has achieved everything in life. He broke the mould just to reach the Formula One grid. The first, and still only, Black driver in the sport's history, Hamilton's sense of purpose – of destiny even – transformed him from the carefree kid playing with his remote-controlled car into a global trendsetter.

Despite his fame and glory, at times he has appeared vulnerable and lonely. He has searched to find his true self and added new dimensions to his character along the way – as musician, fashion designer and red-carpet habitué. So who is the real Lewis? Jonathan McEvoy is uniquely well-placed to assess the Hamilton phenomenon, having followed his career closely from the start. Reflecting on those personal dealings with Hamilton and his family, as well as drawing on numerous interviews and impeccable sources at the heart of the scene, McEvoy endeavours to paint the definitive portrait of man and racer.