Just in:Lewis Hamilton’s pre-race ritual revealed as Angela Cullen’s re…read more
Just in:Lewis Hamilton’s pre-race ritual revealed as Angela Cullen’s re…read more
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 and accompanying 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 him to 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.
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