Seven-time Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton expressed his support for his brother Nicolas Hamilton’s return to the British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) in 2025 by sharing his brother’s Instagram reel on June 13, 2025. Lewis, currently racing for Ferrari, urged his followers to show encouragement and cheer Nicolas on as he makes his comeback to the sport despite significant physical challenges.
Nicolas Hamilton, Lewis’ paternal half-brother, is also a motorsport driver competing in the BTCC. Like Lewis, Nicolas aspired to a career in racing, although he faces the additional challenge of living with Cerebral Palsy, a neurological condition that limits his muscle movement. Despite this, he has persevered in his motorsport career with determination and pride.
Details of Nicolas Hamilton’s Participation in BTCC and Recent Challenges
Nicolas Hamilton currently races with the Powder Monkey Brewing Co team alongside Esidock in the BTCC. He recently competed in the latest rounds at the Thruxton Circuit, where he shared a behind-the-scenes reel on Instagram showing moments from the race weekend and reflecting on his physical struggles.
In the caption accompanying his reel, Nicolas gave a candid update on his mobility issues, stating,
“Walking always feels less severe in terms of movement to me on the inside, as it looks on the outside. I have not been walking great recently, due to tightness & potential aging, which this video showcases.”
“But I’m just grateful to be able to walk in the first place. It has been one hell of a journey to get here. I might be walking poorly in my eyes, but I’m still walking to my #BTCC race car! Be proud of your #disability, whether you’re able to walk or not. Whatever limitations of movement you have, move with pride. #inspire #cerebralpalsy”
Lewis Hamilton amplified this message by reposting the reel on his Instagram story with a call to action:
“My brother is back racing! Go give him some love”
Due to his Cerebral Palsy, Nicolas drives a specially modified BTCC car that features a hand clutch and repositioned accelerator and brake pedals, allowing him to compete at a high level despite his physical limitations.
Nicolas Hamilton’s Journey Back to BTCC Racing in 2025
Nicolas Hamilton took a break from the BTCC midway through the 2023 season, stepping away after achieving a personal career milestone of sixth place in a race at Donington Park. His absence was motivated by mental health challenges related to his condition and racing pressures. Returning only at the start of the 2025 season, Nicolas shared a heartfelt post describing his comeback on Instagram in March:
“BACK IN THE BTCC FOR 2025 After having to walk away from the championship following my historical P6 result back in 2023. I went into a very difficult place mentally, where any thoughts of racing & getting back on the grid again looked unachievable.”
“But after a late opportunity from @ulmofficial in December 2024, I picked myself up & worked hard in therapy to get myself back to a healthier place mentally & set my sights on raising the sponsorship to get back on the grid. After 20 months away, I am so proud to say that I am BACK!”
So far in the 2025 season, Nicolas’ best finish has been seventeenth place at the Thruxton Circuit after competing in 12 races across four race weekends. His determined return demonstrates both his resilience and ongoing commitment to racing despite facing ongoing physical and mental hurdles.
Significance of Nicolas Hamilton’s Return and Broader Impact
Nicolas Hamilton’s participation in the BTCC highlights the possibilities for athletes with disabilities to compete at professional levels by adapting equipment and maintaining perseverance. His journey also shines a light on overcoming mental health challenges that often accompany physical disabilities, particularly in high-pressure sports environments.
Lewis Hamilton’s public support brings additional attention to Nicolas’ inspiring story, encouraging fans and followers to celebrate determination and inclusion within motorsport. As Nicolas continues his comeback throughout the 2025 BTCC season, his progress remains a powerful example of courage and optimism in racing.
