Lewis Hamilton’s FIA Trophy Embarks on an Unexpected Journey Before Returning Home

Lewis Hamilton’s FIA trophy from the 2023 season experienced an unintended detour after a Gala event. Initially believed to be gifted to a Gala attendee, it is now confirmed to return to Hamilton.

Key Takeaways:

• Unexpected Detour: The trophy, celebrating Hamilton’s third-place in the 2023 World Championship, mistakenly ended up with a Gala attendee. The individual claimed it was a gift from Hamilton, leading to its temporary possession by a private individual.
• Clarification and Return: Mercedes and the FIA clarified that the trophy was never intended as a gift. The attendee, initially believed to have received the trophy directly from Hamilton, later acknowledged the misunderstanding.
• Resolution Without Consequences: The trophy is now back with the FIA and will be delivered to Hamilton or Mercedes. No further actions are necessary following the incident’s resolution.

After an unusual journey sparked by a misunderstanding at the FIA Prize Giving Gala, Lewis Hamilton’s FIA trophy from the 2023 World Championship is set to return to its rightful owner. The trophy’s detour began when an attendee of the Gala, a guest of the Azerbaijan Automobile Federation, mistakenly believed that Hamilton had gifted the trophy to him. This misinterpretation led to a brief stay at the attendee’s home and a flurry of social media activity.

PlanetF1.com reported that the trophy is now securely back with the FIA, after the attendee’s posts went viral. The attendee had originally stated on a now-deleted X (formerly Twitter) account, “Hello. I was at the Gala yesterday. Lewis Hamilton gave me the award and left. I have the prize at home now.”

Mercedes, in an official statement, clarified the situation: “Immediately after leaving the stage, and as has been done at previous prizegivings, Lewis accepted the offer from officials for the trophy to be sent on to the team and therefore left it in their care.” They confirmed, “We can confirm he did not give the trophy to anyone ‘as a gift’ as has been speculated.”

The attendee, overwhelmed by the online backlash, later clarified his actions in a post: “Hello, good evening. I am very disappointed to see messages written to me like thief or something. […] I thought [Hamilton] gifted me the award. But now, after seeing the statement from Mercedes, I understand that Lewis did not gift me the award.”

Lewis Hamilton, a legendary figure in Formula 1, began his career with McLaren in 2007, later moving to Mercedes. His record includes 103 race wins, 104 pole positions, and seven World Championships. Known for his smooth yet aggressive driving style, Hamilton has become a symbol of excellence in motorsport. His journey from a rookie sensation to a seven-time World Champion showcases his unmatched talent and dedication to the sport.

As the trophy returns to its rightful place, this incident highlights the unique situations that can arise in the glamorous world of Formula 1, where even a trophy’s journey can become a headline story.