KUALA LUMPUR – SMK Seri Keramat students had an eventful morning when seven-time Formula One (F1) World Champion Lewis Hamilton dropped by the secondary school earlier today.
In a post on social media platform X, user @FazreenIdham shared images and videos of the 39-year-old Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 driver visiting the school, accompanied by other figures who appear to be event photographers and media personnel.
A brief clip posted by the user captured the cheery Briton interacting with several students from the school, which had won the National Petronas Chemicals Group Champion 2023 award.
It is understood that Hamilton was at the school to participate in an event commemorating its win in the collaborative programme between its Parent Teacher Association and Petrosains.
Reacting to the post, netizens expressed their shock and amusement at the “surprise” visit, with some commenting that the international motorsport icon’s appearance in Keramat was “not on their 2024 bingo card”.
Hamilton had previously finished ninth during the second race of this year’s F1 season at the Saudi Arabia Grand Prix that took place last weekend at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit.
Teammate George Russel ended the race in sixth place, up one position from his qualifying-round spot, and eight seconds ahead of Hamilton.
The F1 teams will be heading to Australia next for the Rolex Australian Grand Prix at the Albert Park Circuit on March 24.
Malaysians might not get the opportunity to revel in Hamilton’s occasional visits to the nation anymore due to his decision to part ways with Mercedes after the 2024 season.
His move away from the Silver Arrows after 11 years was confirmed in February, with his racing career set to continue with Italy’s Scuderia Ferrari. – March 15, 2024