Lewis Hamilton has paid tribute to Harry Schell, the American Formula 1 driver who lost his life in a devastating crash at Silverstone in 1960—a tragedy that remains one of the darkest moments in the sport’s history.

Schell was 𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁ed during a practice session for the non-championship BRDC International Trophy race, when his Cooper car lost control in wet conditions at Abbey Curve and slammed into the barriers at around 100 mph. The car lost a wheel and flipped, and Schell died instantly from his injuries.

The fatal accident, which occurred just before the race weekend, sent shockwaves through the paddock and prompted renewed scrutiny over safety standards in Formula 1.

Speaking ahead of the 2025 British Grand Prix, Hamilton reflected on the legacy of drivers like Schell and the hard lessons motorsport has had to endure. “Drivers like Harry paid the ultimate price for our sport to evolve,” Hamilton said. “It’s heartbreaking, but we have to remember these stories because they are why we race under far better conditions today. Safety is something we fight for every day—and it’s built on sacrifices like his.”

Harry Schell’s death became a key moment in the development of safety in Formula 1, particularly in promoting the use of roll bars on European racing cars—a feature he had advocated for prior to his accident. Within a year of the tragedy, roll bars were made mandatory in the sport, setting the foundation for decades of improved driver protection.

Hamilton, who has long been a vocal campaigner for safety and equality in the sport, also highlighted the importance of continuing to innovate.

“When we introduced the halo, there was pushback, but it saved Zhou’s life in 2022 right here at Silverstone. We’ve come a long way, but we still have to keep pushing for better standards for every driver, everywhere,” he added.

The halo, introduced in 2018, proved crucial when Alfa Romeo driver Zhou Guanyu survived a horrifying crash at the British Grand Prix three years ago. His car flipped and slid upside down before coming to rest wedged between the tyre barrier and fencing—yet he emerged without major injuries.

As Formula 1 returns to Silverstone this weekend, the memories of past heroes like Schell serve as both a solemn tribute and a powerful reminder of the sport’s perilous roots. With Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri now battling for the championship lead, the contrast between past and present safety measures is stark—but the mission, as Hamilton insists, remains the same:

“We owe it to Harry and so many others to never forget—and never stand still when it comes to safety.”