WATCH: Throwback to Lewis Hamilton's 'magical break' failure at Azerbaijan GP, costing him 2021 F1 title

Lewis Hamilton’s Formula 1 career has been marked by precision and success, but one rare moment of error at the 2021 Azerbaijan Grand Prix may have been a pivotal factor in his failure to secure an eighth world title. In an incident that stunned fans and experts alike, Hamilton’s accidental activation of a steering wheel feature called the "Magic Button" cost him a potential victory and crucial championship points.

The drama unfolded during the race's restart after a red flag, caused by Max Verstappen’s tyre puncture, which forced the race leader to retire. With Verstappen out of contention, Hamilton, the seven-time world champion, was in a prime position to capitalize on his rival’s misfortune.

Here is the video:

Wait for the scream...



Lewis Hamilton locks up at the restart in 2021 and @AussieGrit couldn't contain himself 🤣#F1 #AzerbaijanGP pic.twitter.com/DmBUgqHYw0

— Formula 1 (@F1) September 11, 2024

Starting from second on the grid, he seemed poised to reclaim the lead and gain significant ground in the title race. However, a rare misstep occurred just as the lights went out for the restart. Hamilton’s start was flawless, positioning him well ahead of the pack.

Yet, as he approached the first turn, his car suddenly veered off course, leaving fans and commentators baffled. The cause was soon revealed: Hamilton had accidentally hit the "Magic Button," a feature designed to adjust the brake balance of the car, primarily used during warm-ups and not in race conditions. The button drastically altered the car’s braking dynamics, causing Hamilton to lose control and miss the turn entirely.

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The mistake handed Red Bull’s Sergio Perez his first victory for the team, while Hamilton finished outside the points with a DNF (Did Not Finish). Reflecting on the mishap, Hamilton later described it as a “humbling experience,” acknowledging the gravity of the error in what could have been a game-changing race for the championship.

With the title battle between Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen were going down to the wire that season, the Azerbaijan GP incident looms large as one of the moments that might have cost Hamilton the 2021 title. This uncharacteristic blunder remains a significant “what if” in the closely contested championship, where every point mattered.