Formula 1 star Lewis Hamilton reveals meanings behind his tattoos

Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton has revealed the meanings behind the tattoos that cover his body.

In an interview with Men's Health magazine, the 30-year-old admitted that religion plays a major part in his life, and his tattoos reflect that.

"I love my ink," Hamilton told the magazine. "They all have a meaning. I'm very strong in my faith, so I wanted to have some religious images. I've got Pieta, a Michelangelo sculpture of Mary holding Jesus after he came off the cross, on my shoulder.

"A sacred heart on my arm. Musical notes, because I love music. The compass on my chest is there because church is my compass. Family is everything for me, so I have 'family' written on the top, across my shoulders. 'Faith', obviously."

The Mercedes driver, who also has 'power beyond measure' inked on his chest, won this season's opening Grand Prix in Australia and came second in Malaysia last weekend.