Lewis Hamilton Highlights the Role of Fashion in His Formula 1 Career

Lewis Hamilton reveals how his interest in fashion has helped him feel more authentic in the Formula 1 paddock — an environment that was initially neither diverse nor inclusive.

The Ferrari driver is known for his bold outfit choices when arriving at circuits. A historic moment occurred at the 2024 Abu Dhabi GP — when his attire transitioned from silver to red over four days, marking his move from Mercedes to Ferrari.

“When I first arrived in Formula 1, I was still discovering my style. The environment wasn’t very diverse and I didn’t feel like I could be myself. It wasn’t an inclusive environment,” the seven-time world champion told Esquire UK.

The British driver explained that wearing team kit for about 90 days a year felt restrictive — fashion became his way of self-expression.

The impact of his fashion experimentation is now clearly visible in the F1 paddock:

• Other drivers have begun showing their character through clothing
• The paddock atmosphere has become more open to personal expression
• F1’s dress culture is no longer limited to team uniforms