Lewis Hamilton has declared that "Black men have always had to be more excellent than our white counterparts" whilst discussing his approach to high-end fashion in Vogue magazine.
The seven-time Formula One world champion made the statement in the Met issue of the publication, ahead of his role as co-host at next month's prestigious Met Gala.
Hamilton, 40, has become known for his bold fashion choices in recent years, a stark contrast to his early days in motorsport.
The British racing legend will be helping to lead the fashion event which he praised for celebrating "black dandyism".
Lewis Hamilton is renowned for his fashion choices as well as his skills behind the wheels
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"That's why this theme is just so important to me," Hamilton explained.
Hamilton revealed that during his early Formula One career, he struggled with restrictive dress codes imposed by team bosses.
"When I first signed with F1 I was only allowed to wear suits and team kits, and it was horrible," he told Vogue.
"I didn't feel comfortable, and I didn't feel like I was able to be myself."
He recalled being "looked up and down by a boss" before joining F1, whilst wearing FUBU sportswear and Timberland boots.
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"I remember thinking, 'Shoot, I've really got to fit into this mould'," he said.
On his first day at Ferrari, he arrived "immaculately dressed in a black tie, with a double-breasted overcoat from Italian label Ferragamo".
Hamilton shared that his childhood fashion inspirations included Muhammad Ali, Michael Jordan and Eddie Murphy in Beverly Hills Cop.
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Lewis Hamilton has brought his fashion choices to the track
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He also revealed his early love for "Tommy Hilfiger pieces that I saw in music videos".
"I eventually had the courage to push beyond those boundaries and say, 'Look, I want to turn up to the track in what I want to wear'," he explained.
Other drivers have since started following his example, embracing more personal style choices.
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