Lewis Hamilton caught the attention of fans and media alike at the 2025 Canadian Grand Prix by entering the paddock alone, without his usual entourage. This rare appearance saw the seven-time world champion walking across the artificial turf unaccompanied during media day on Thursday in Montreal, marking a notable departure from his typical presence.
After mostly appearing in Ferrari red throughout 2025, Hamilton reverted to his signature fashionable style for both the Monaco and Canadian rounds, arriving in an indigo denim jacket and matching jeans. The move to walk solo through the F1 paddock has sparked intrigue, as Hamilton is usually surrounded by security and team personnel.
Observations from the Paddock: Photographer Highlights Hamilton’s Solo Walk
F1 paddock photographer Kym Illman drew attention to Hamilton’s unexpected lone stroll on social media, emphasizing how unusual this was for the driver.
Lewis Hamilton surprised us all this morning by making the 150-metre walk across the artificial turf completely on his own — casually dressed and without his security in sight,
Illman wrote on X.
It’s not something we’re used to seeing; Lewis very rarely goes anywhere unaccompanied.
—Kym Illman, F1 Paddock Photographer
While fans did not seem concerned by Hamilton’s solitary approach, they enthusiastically welcomed the return of his distinctive paddock fashion. One fan shared a photo and exclaimed, LHFW in Canada! Another added, Finally. LHFW is back, a nod to Hamilton’s reputation for using the paddock as a platform for showcasing fashion.
Hamilton Voices Support for Ferrari Team Principal Fred Vasseur
During Thursday’s press conference, Hamilton shifted focus to express firm backing for Ferrari’s team principal, Fred Vasseur, amid circulating rumors in Italian media about his possible replacement. Hamilton, 40, made it clear that he believes Vasseur is essential to Ferrari’s revival.
I love working with Fred. Fred’s the main reason I’m in this team and got the opportunity to be here, which I’m forever grateful for,
Hamilton said.
Despite Ferrari’s struggles this season, with only one sprint race victory in China achieved by Hamilton and a couple of recent podiums for Charles Leclerc in Monaco and Barcelona, the Briton remains committed to the project.
We’re in this together. We’re working hard in the background. Things aren’t perfect but I am here to work with the team but also with Fred.
I want Fred here. I believe he is the person to take us to the top.
—Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari Driver
Context: Ferrari’s Challenging 2025 and Hamilton’s Role
Ferrari’s 2025 campaign has been difficult, marked by inconsistent results and a search for wins beyond Hamilton’s lone sprint success. The team has only recently returned to podium finishes, underscoring the pressure on leadership and drivers alike. Hamilton’s visible confidence in Vasseur highlights an internal belief in the current management despite external doubts.
Meanwhile, the Canadian GP weekend has been tense overall, with events such as a crash involving a Ferrari star and heated exchanges involving Max Verstappen further stirring the atmosphere around the race.
What Hamilton’s Unaccompanied Appearance Signals for the Season
Hamilton’s rare decision to forgo his security detail and entourage might reflect shifts in his mindset or approach amid a pressure-filled season for Ferrari and his own campaign. His reaffirmed support for Vasseur suggests a focus on teamwork and stability as Ferrari seeks to regain top form in the second half of 2025.
This unusual glimpse into Hamilton’s behavior at the Canadian Grand Prix provides observers with new insight into the champion’s state of mind and the evolving dynamics within one of Formula 1’s most high-profile teams. The coming races will reveal whether this fresh outlook translates into stronger performance on track.