Lewis Hamiltons motivation on Manchester United
A different kind of reference point
Michael Carrick has not looked far inside football alone for ideas since stepping into the Manchester United dugout. Instead, he has turned to the mentality of one of Britain’s most successful athletes, Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton.
According to Crash.net, Carrick has been open about how he uses examples from elite sport to reinforce expectations among his players, particularly when results begin to improve.
The underlying message is simple: success should never lead to complacency.
Early lift at Old Trafford
Carrick’s caretaker spell has begun with immediate encouragement. United won his first two matches in charge, defeating rivals Manchester City and Premier League leaders Arsenal.
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While the club’s long term future remains unresolved, the short term response has been positive. Carrick has stressed that early wins should raise standards rather than relax them, a theme he repeatedly reinforces with his squad.
Lessons borrowed from Formula One
Speaking on the Rio Ferdinand Presents podcast, Carrick explained that he regularly references a quote from Lewis Hamilton when addressing players.
“I used to say this to the lads at Middlesbrough all the time,” Carrick said. “They’re probably sick of me saying it.”
He then pointed to a quote he attributes to Hamilton, saying, “If I feel comfortable in the car, I’m not driving fast enough.”
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Why the message resonates
Carrick told the podcast that the lesson is especially relevant in elite football, where small margins can decide matches and seasons.
“Don’t you ever be comfortable because if you’re comfortable you’re not pushing enough,” he said, explaining how the principle shapes both training sessions and match preparation.
Hamilton, now preparing for his second season with Ferrari, is widely regarded as the most successful driver in Formula One history, holding records for race wins and pole positions alongside seven world titles.
Football roots behind the philosophy
Hamilton’s connection to football also adds weight to the comparison. He is a lifelong Arsenal supporter and was part of a consortium that attempted to buy Chelsea in 2022.
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In previous interviews, Hamilton has spoken about growing up around different club loyalties and how sport helped shape his sense of belonging and competitiveness. Those themes, Carrick believes, mirror the demands placed on players at a club like Manchester United.
For a manager navigating a transitional period, the message is clear: progress only comes by refusing to stand still.
Sources: Crash.net
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