Mission 44 and Lewis Hamilton host 40 students at Silverstone for an inspiring F1 experience. Inside Mission 44: Lewis Hamilton gives 40 students unforgettable access to Formula 1.

Mission 44 was present at Silverstone last weekend to continue its mission of breaking down the barriers that limit opportunities for talented students while increasing inclusion across STEM fields and motorsport. Working alongside Formula 1, the foundation brought together teams, partners and industry experts at the Igniting Inclusion Summit to explore the steps needed to improve access to and support for talented students from underrepresented backgrounds who aspire to careers in racing.

Five years after the publication of the landmark Hamilton Commission report, Accelerating Change, the Igniting Inclusion Summit provided an important opportunity to reflect on the progress made in widening access to Formula 1 while also setting out a clear vision of what still needs to be achieved.

A special conversation with Lewis Hamilton and an unforgettable visit to the Ferrari garage

Last Thursday, 40 students from Mission 44 partners AFBE-UK, upReach, Stevenage Borough Council and Silverstone UTC gathered at the Silverstone UTC campus for a special meeting with Mission 44 founder Lewis Hamilton. Speaking with the students, the British driver reflected on his journey to Formula 1 and explained why creating greater opportunities for young people remains at the heart of Mission 44’s work.

The students then shared their own thoughts on what needs to be done to improve access to STEM careers and help build a more inclusive motorsport industry for future generations.

The group later headed into the heart of the Formula 1 paddock for an unforgettable afternoon, enjoying an exclusive visit to the Scuderia Ferrari garage. In addition to touring the garage, the students had the opportunity to see the LEGO Formula 1 mini cars that would take part in the Silverstone driver parade on Sunday. They also met the engineers and designers behind the project, asking questions about the creative process, the technical challenges and the teamwork required to bring these one-of-a-kind racing cars to life.

Back at Silverstone UTC, the day concluded with an interactive session led by IBM, a Mission 44 partner. During the workshop, the students explored how emerging technologies—including artificial intelligence, data and digital innovation—are shaping the future of motorsport while opening up exciting new career opportunities.

Since its launch in 2021, Mission 44 has worked closely with schools, charities and industry partners such as Formula 1 to create more inclusive pathways into STEM careers and motorsport, already achieving significant and encouraging results.