Kristina Bumphrey/Variety via Getty Images

Damson Idris Says He Can’t Beat Lewis Hamilton at Anything

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Samriddhi Jaiswal | Last updated Jun 17, 2025 1:04 PM ET

Damson Idris may be playing an F1 driver in the upcoming Hollywood film co-produced by Lewis Hamilton but in real life, the actor has nothing but awe for the seven-time world champion.

When asked if he could beat Hamilton in a race, Idris gave an honest and hilarious reply: “I can’t even beat Lewis running, there’s no way. That guy is fast in every way.”

His praise didn’t stop there. Idris, who stars in the highly anticipated Formula 1 movie, continued showering Hamilton with admiration.

“He’s such a genius, such a champion, such an innovator and such a beautiful human being,” Idris said, smiling.

The two have built a strong friendship off-screen while working on the F1 project, with Hamilton mentoring Idris on the sport and helping bring authenticity to the role.

Hamilton has long been a vocal advocate for diversity in motorsport, and Idris’ casting as a leading man in the first major F1 blockbuster aligns with that mission.

Damson: "I can't even beat Lewis running, there's no way. That guy is fast in every way."

"He's such a genius, such a champion, such an innovator and such a beautiful human being." pic.twitter.com/sbKalFdDUJ
— sin ⁴⁴ (@44britcedes) June 16, 2025

Their bond appears to extend beyond the paddock and production studio — it’s clear Idris sees Hamilton not just as a racing legend, but as a real-life superhero.

With the movie’s release approaching, fans are already buzzing about the chemistry between the two and the authenticity Idris brings to the role — thanks in no small part to Hamilton’s guidance.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: