Lewis Hamilton has shared how embracing his passion for fashion helped him feel more authentic in the Formula 1 paddock, an environment he initially found lacking in diversity and inclusion. His bold approach to race day outfits, especially during the 2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix weekend, marked a significant change in how drivers present themselves, boosting his confidence and influencing others.
The Impact of Hamilton’s Unique Style on the Race Weekend
Throughout the 2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Hamilton’s outfits evolved to symbolize his transition from Mercedes to Ferrari for the 2025 season. Starting with all-silver and moving progressively to all-red over the course of the weekend, these custom looks attracted widespread attention on social media and highlighted his desire to break away from the typical team kit uniform seen in Formula 1.
Overcoming an Exclusive Environment Through Fashion
Reflecting on his early days in the sport, the seven-time world champion described the paddock as a space that was not inclusive. He recalled the challenge of entering the racetrack and navigating a world where individuality was not encouraged. Hamilton stated,
“When you arrive to the racetrack, you walk through the gates, basically, you walk through the turnstiles, and there’s a distance that you have to travel. And I remember when I first arrived on the scene in Formula 1, and I was still discovering my style.” —Lewis Hamilton, Formula 1 Driver
He added that the lack of diversity made it difficult to feel comfortable or be truly himself in that setting.
The Role of Style in Building Personal Confidence
For Hamilton, finding his own fashion sense became a form of self-expression amid the uniformity of team apparel, which he found restrictive. He shared,
“I think discovering my sense of style, finding a way to be able to express myself – I’m being pictured every day in team kit. You’re in team kit for 90-odd days in the year, the same top, and for me, that’s a killer. Like, it kills me.” —Lewis Hamilton, Formula 1 Driver
This personal evolution in style offered him a new sense of confidence, helping him stand out beyond his performance on the track.
Inspiring a New Era of Self-Expression Among Drivers
Apart from boosting his own confidence, Hamilton has been grateful to inspire fellow drivers to also express themselves through their attire. He noted that for decades, F1 drivers have primarily worn their team uniforms without much consideration for personal style. Hamilton explained,
“So all the drivers in the history of the last 70 years, probably – at least in my time – they’re always in team kit. It’s never, never on their radar of what they wear. They just wear the team stuff and shorts or whatever it may be.” —Lewis Hamilton, Formula 1 Driver
His willingness to express his personality off the track has encouraged others to embrace their individuality, making the paddock a more vibrant and diverse space.
The Lasting Effect of Hamilton’s Fashion Influence
Hamilton sees his fashion choices as more than just clothing; they represent a liberation for drivers to display their true character. He said,
“But for me, it’s something that I’ve really found myself in. It’s given me a lot of confidence to show up in my own gear, and then I switch over to my team kit, and it’s been amazing to see that.” —Lewis Hamilton, Formula 1 Driver
This shift has led to many drivers arriving at races in outfits that express their distinct personalities, helping to reshape the culture within Formula 1.
Gratitude for Sparking Change in the Paddock
Hamilton expressed appreciation for his role in opening the door for others, saying,
“So I’m really grateful to have been a part of that.” —Lewis Hamilton, Formula 1 Driver
The ongoing transformation toward a more inclusive and expressive paddock environment underscores Hamilton’s broader impact, extending beyond his racing achievements to cultural change within the sport.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why is 17 banned in F1?
A. Number 17 is the only retired driver number in Formula 1, honoring the late Jules Bianchi. Bianchi was using this number during his tragic accident at the 2014 Japanese Grand Prix.
Q. Which F1 driver has ADHD?
A. Lewis Hamilton, born in 1985, is a British Formula One driver currently racing for Mercedes and formerly raced for McLaren. He openly talks about living with ADHD and shares his wide range of interests and passions.
Q. Why is number 17 banned in F1?
A. The number 17 was retired to honor Jules Bianchi, a French racer who sadly died in 2015.
He had severe head injuries from the 2014 Japanese Grand Prix.
Bianchi used number 17 when competing, and the FIA chose to retire the number permanently in his memory.
Q. Is number 69 allowed in F1?
A. Drivers can pick their own permanent numbers from 0 to 99, but not 1. Only the World Champion can use number 1 if they want, but it’s not mandatory.