Lewis Hamilton has long been laying the groundwork for his role as cochair at this year’s Met Gala.

The Formula 1 star scored his first invite to the event in 2015, which was monumental for the athlete who recently told Vogue that he’s had a storied history with fashion and using it to show up authentically in the world and in his sport as a Black man.

In 2021, he made the decision to not only attend the gala, but to curate a table with stylist Law Roach that featured up-and-coming Black designers, including Kenneth Nicholson, Edvin Thompson and Jason Rembert.

“I’ve always loved going to the Met Gala but this year was very special and had more meaning to me than any other year,” Hamilton told WWD at the time. “It’s so important for me to be able to offer more opportunities for underrepresented people and I hope this will help spark conversation for more inclusion in the fashion industry.”

Lewis Hamilton (third from left) with Miles Chamley-Watson, designer Kenneth Nicholson, designer Law Roach, rapper Kehlani, stylist Jason Rembert, sprinter Sha’Carri Richardson, Theophilio designer Edvin Thompson and model Alton Mason at the 2021 Met Gala. (Mike Coppola/Getty Images)

With Black dandyism on display at this year’s carpet and Costume Institute exhibition, it seems that Hamilton’s wish is being fulfilled. Even better, he’s a big part of it.

“Timing is everything, and to have cochaired a previous Met Gala wouldn’t have been as special. I’m really proud,” he told Vogue.