Lewis Hamilton’s pre-race ritual revealed as Angela Cullen’s re…read mor
Mercedes race team co-ordinator Stephen Lord has shared details about his expanded role in supporting Lewis Hamilton’s pre-race routine, following the departure of Hamilton’s long-time physio, Angela Cullen, in early 2023. Hamilton personally requested team principal Toto Wolff to appoint Lord as his new pre-race assistant, a role he had previously held at McLaren. Despite initial hesitation from Wolff due to Lord’s existing responsibilities with the team, Hamilton persisted in his request, and Lord began supporting the seven-time World Champion ahead of races, helping with tasks like handling his kit andaccompanying him to the grid.
Lord expressed that he has enjoyed his new role, finding it rewarding to work more closely with Hamilton as he prepares for races. The extra responsibility has provided Lord with valuable insight into Hamilton’s character and the meticulous nature of his pre-race preparation. As Lord explained ahead of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on the Beyond the Grid podcast, the pre-race routine is consistent, regardless of Hamilton’s position on the grid, whether he starts in pole position or further down the grid.Lord’s involvement in Hamilton’s pre-race activities began at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in 2022, and he has continued in the role since then. Although Lord had a sense that he might end up in this position, he refrained from making any predictions. He described the experience as fulfilling, allowing himto develop an even deeper understanding of Hamilton’s approach to racing.
The ritual, which Lord helps Hamilton with, is a critical part of the driver’s race day preparations. It involves a precise and methodical process that Hamilton follows before every race. Through his new role, Lord has gained a unique perspective on the discipline and mental focus that Hamilton brings to each event, further strengthening the bond between them as they work together in the lead-up to race weekends.
In a recent revelation, Mercedes race team coordinator Stephen Lord has shared insights into his expanded role in supporting Lewis Hamilton’s pre-race routine. This shift comes after the departure of Hamilton’s long-time physio, Angela Cullen, in early 2023. Hamilton himself played a key role in Lord’s appointment, personally requesting team principal Toto Wolff to designate him as his new pre-race assistant. Lord had previously held a similar position at McLaren, but Wolff initially hesitated, citing Lord’s existing responsibilities within the team. However, Hamilton was determined, and Wolff eventually agreed to the arrangement.
Lord began his new duties at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in 2022, marking the start of a significant shift in his role within the Mercedes team. Since then, he has been an integral part of Hamilton’s pre-race preparations. His responsibilities include handling Hamilton’s race kit, ensuring he has everything he needs before heading to the grid, and accompanying the driver during his pre-race routine. This collaboration has strengthened Lord’s relationship with Hamilton, providing him with a firsthand look at the meticulous nature of the seven-time World Champion’s race-day focus and preparation.
Despite the change in roles, Lord expressed his satisfaction with the new position. He described the work as deeply rewarding, offering him a unique insight into Hamilton’s character. “It’s been a privilege to work more closely with Lewis,” Lord explained. “I’ve gained a deeper understanding of his approach to racing and the mental discipline required to perform at the highest level.” Through his involvement in Hamilton’s pre-race ritual, Lord has gained a greater appreciation for the precision and consistency with which Hamilton approaches every Grand Prix, regardless of his starting position.
Lord’s role is crucial in helping Hamilton maintain his level of excellence, with the pre-race routine being a critical part of the driver’s race day preparations. It is a structured and methodical process that Hamilton follows to ensure he is mentally and physically ready for the challenges ahead. This ritual is not influenced by where Hamilton starts on the grid; whether he is in pole position or further down, the routine remains consistent. The attention to detail in his preparations reflects Hamilton’s commitment to his craft and his drive to perform at the highest level, something Lord has observed and grown to admire in his time working closely with the driver.
Hamilton’s pre-race ritual, as shared by Lord, involves a series of actions designed to focus the mind and body before the intense concentration required for a Formula 1 race. This could include tasks such as reviewing race strategies, staying calm and focused, and preparing mentally for the upcoming challenge. Lord’s role in these preparations is multifaceted, with him helping to ensure everything is in place so Hamilton can focus on what he does best—racing. By assisting with the logistics and mental aspect of the ritual, Lord provides Hamilton with the peace of mind needed to concentrate on the task at hand.
While Lord had an inkling that he might eventually take on this role, he refrained from making predictions before his appointment. Reflecting on the experience, he acknowledged how fulfilling it has been. His position has not only deepened his understanding of Hamilton as a driver but has also given him an insight into the broader dynamics of Formula 1. The role has strengthened the bond between the two, allowing Lord to gain a front-row seat to Hamilton’s unyielding dedication to his sport.
As the partnership between Lord and Hamilton continues to evolve, it highlights the importance of teamwork and support in the high-pressure world of Formula 1. With Lord playing a key role in Hamilton’s pre-race ritual, the two have forged a deeper connection that has contributed to the driver’s continued success. As Lord continues to help Hamilton prepare for each race, it is clear that this collaboration has become an essential part of the driver’s overall approach to Formula 1, with both parties gaining valuable insight from the experience.
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