Lewis Hamilton Meets UK Prime Minister to Push for Inclusive Education Reform
Seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton visited 10 Downing Street to meet British Prime Minister Keir Starmer as part of his ongoing efforts to improve inclusivity in education. The meeting focused on addressing long-standing challenges in the UK’s education system, especially for underrepresented and vulnerable students.
Hamilton was accompanied by scholars from his foundation, Mission 44, which he launched in 2021 to support young people from diverse backgrounds. The initiative offers scholarships and resources in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) to help bridge educational gaps and create opportunities for those often overlooked by traditional systems.
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The discussion between Hamilton and Starmer centered on reform strategies aimed at making schools more inclusive and responsive to the needs of all students. Both shared personal stories that reinforced the urgency of their mission—Hamilton opened up about being bullied in school due to his race, while Starmer shared his own family’s struggles with the education system.
Hamilton reflected on his childhood challenges:
> “I remember the challenges I faced at school. I didn’t feel like my voice was heard or that anyone wanted to look into the reasons why I was struggling so much. If they had, then perhaps my experience at school would have been very different.”
The Mercedes icon, who has consistently used his platform to speak out against racial and social injustice, emphasized the importance of listening to today’s youth. According to Mission 44’s data, 17% of students feel unsafe or unwelcome at school, 41% feel ignored when voicing concerns, and 36% of students with special needs report negative impacts on their mental health due to school experiences.
Hamilton and Starmer both pledged to work together to implement real changes that ensure no student feels excluded or unsupported. The collaboration between a leading sports figure and the UK’s highest office sends a powerful message about the role of public figures in driving social change.
“Working together to make sure all young people get the opportunities they deserve,” Hamilton said of the partnership.