Lewis Hamilton paid tribute to fellow British sporting legend David Beckham on the eve of his 50th birthday.
The seven-time world champion said he’s inspired by the football icon, and hopes to emulate his post-playing career after he retires from racing.
Since hanging up his boots in 2013, Beckham has taken on a huge amount of business interests which includes the co-owning of football clubs Inter Miami and Salford City.
“David’s a friend and someone I have a huge amount of respect for,” said the 40-year-old ahead of this weekend’s Miami Grand Prix.
“Obviously growing up and watching him, particularly as I was massively into soccer and football…just watching his career and seeing his documentary that came out [recently], which I thought was amazing.
“What he’s been able to do, particularly after his active career, has always been something that I’ve kept an eye on.
Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari
Photo by: Sam Bagnall / Motorsport Images
“Obviously I joined his old management team many, many years ago with the goal of trying to do something similar. I was really Inspired by what he was able to do.”
Hamilton joined Simon Fuller’s XIX Entertainment in 2010. Fuller, who also managed Beckham and cyclist Bradley Wiggins, was Hamilton’s representative for four years until he decided to take on his own management.
Hamilton and Beckham have maintained a friendship and shared respect through the years.
In 2020, the ex-winger, who played for the likes of Real Madrid and Manchester United, gushed over the F1 driver after Hamilton secured a record-equalling seventh world title – tied with Michael Schumacher.
“Unbelievable and inspiring…years of hard work,” he wrote. “[Lewis Hamilton] nothing comes easy and success isn’t without a fight.
“But unfortunately you had more fights than anyone should ever have to deal with – inspiration.”
