Formula One star Lewis Hamilton has revealed he will be supporting two teams in the upcoming 2026 World Cup.
The seven-time F1 world champion is from Stevenage in England and one of the greatest sports stars Britain have produced.
Like many F1 drivers, Hamilton’s primary residence is in Monaco – where the next Grand Prix takes place this weekend.
Football-wise, Hamilton grew up a boyhood Arsenal supporter and admitted that he “shed a tear” when the Gunners won a first Premier League title in 22 years last season.
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But on the international stage, the 41-year-old’s allegiances are shared going into the first ever 48-team World Cup.
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In a new interview with F1, Hamilton revealed that while he will be supporting his home nation – he will also be cheering for five-time world champions Brazil.
“For me it’s tied with England,” Hamilton explained.
“Honestly, Brazil has always been my favourite team.
“Growing up in England I used to love watching Brazil play. I think it’s the colours, it’s the culture. The players always look the most skilful. They were so cool.
“And I just appreciate where they come from. Many of the players come from the streets where they play with no shoes and there’s something quite special about Brazilian culture.”
Lewis Hamilton’s Brazil love explained ahead of World Cup
Hamilton’s love for Brazil can also be linked to the fact that his racing idol was the late Ayrton Senna, who hailed from the South American country and won three F1 world titles before his death.
Hamilton feels a special connection to Brazil. Image: Getty
Hamilton’s maiden F1 world championship win came in Brazil at the Autodromo Jose Carlos Pace back in 2008 and he has enjoyed many special career moments in the country.
He has even paid tribute to Senna and showed respect to the adoring Brazilian fans by carrying the country’s flag after wins, notably doing it after a memorable 2021 triumph at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix.
Though he was given a knighthood in 2021 to become Sir Lewis Hamilton, the Ferrari man had another honour bestowed upon him in 2022 when he was made an honorary citizen of Brazil.
At a special ceremony, Hamilton received Brazil’s legislative medal of merit and a diploma.
In his speech, he told Brazilians, “I really do feel like now I’m one of you, finally” and that “it is honestly the greatest honour for me to be here receiving and accepting this citizenship”.
