Racing car that launched Lewis Hamilton’s career on show at Haynes Motor Museum
Published: 21/11/2024
Haynes Motor Museum has unveiled an exciting new addition to its ‘Hall of Motorsport’ exhibition: the racing car that launched Lewis Hamilton’s iconic career.
The car, a meticulously restored Formula Renault, was the first-ever single-seater driven by Hamilton at the age of just 16, marking the early steps of his journey to becoming one of the world’s greatest ever Formula 1 champions.
This rare vehicle is the only surviving chassis from Hamilton’s Formula Renault career.
After an extensive three-year restoration by Nick Edginton Racing, it has been painstakingly reassembled with period-correct parts sourced globally, preserving its authentic history.
Driven by Hamilton during the 2002-2003 seasons with Manor Motorsport, the car competed in the Formula Renault UK Championship and select rounds of the Formula Renault Eurocup series.
Notably, on June 16, 2002, it took Hamilton to his first ever single-seater victory at Thruxton, where he claimed pole position, set the fastest lap, and earned a thrilling win.
Throughout the season, Hamilton went on to achieve three wins, four podiums, three pole positions, and five fastest laps across 11 rounds, marking his clear potential in the racing world.
The car, which has been loaned to the Museum will give visitors a chance to witness firsthand the beginnings of a motorsport legend.
“We are thrilled to give Hamilton fans and motorsport enthusiasts the chance to experience this piece of history up close, celebrating the roots of a champion in a setting dedicated to celebrating stories of motoring heritage,” said Museum Curator, Dr Luca Hoare.
“This display was made possible through Alex Thornton, the car’s owner, and Nick Edginton, who led the restoration.
“Through an introduction by another a former racing driver, the museum team collaborated with Thornton to bring this significant car to Haynes, where it finds a fitting home among other icons of racing history,” she added.
Haynes Motor Museum, located in Somerset, is the UK’s largest collection of cars and motorcycles, offering a fascinating journey through automotive history.
With over 300 vehicles on display, the museum covers everything from classic cars to modern supercars. The ‘Hall of Motorsport’ exhibition, where Hamilton’s car is featured, showcases vehicles that have shaped racing history, celebrating the engineering, speed, and passion behind motorsport.
Haynes Motor Museum, Sparkford, Nr. Yeovil, Somerset, BA22 7LH. Open 10am daily. For more information call 01963 440804 or visit www.haynesmotormuseum.org
