During the Miami Grand Prix, Lewis Hamilton found himself in an unexpected situation when asked about David Beckham’s milestone 50th birthday. The two share a friendship and a history with the same agency, which prompted Hamilton to reflect on Beckham’s impressive accomplishments since retiring from professional soccer. This moment carried significance, especially as Hamilton is navigating the later stages of his celebrated Formula 1 career.
As a seven-time world champion, Hamilton has an extraordinary track record, boasting more race victories than any other driver in the sport’s history. However, he has faced a challenging transition since joining Ferrari for the 2025 season. His performance has been inconsistent, with only a surprising sprint race victory in Shanghai standing out amid a series of struggles. The pressure has mounted to the point where Ralf Schumacher has suggested it might be time for Hamilton to consider retirement this summer.
When addressing the media in Miami, it was clear that improving his performance with Ferrari is a top priority for Hamilton, even as he prepares to co-chair the prestigious Met Gala, an annual fundraising gala at The Metropolitan Museum of Art. When questioned about his outfit for the event, Hamilton confidently replied, “I don’t even know. I haven’t really put much thought into it.”
Hamilton expressed his enthusiasm for collaborating with Anna Wintour and her team, appreciating the opportunity to engage with the fashion world while managing his obligations as a racing driver. “It’s amazing working with Anna and her team. It’s been a privilege. To be able to continue to do stuff in fashion is fun. Anna’s been really understanding – I haven’t had a lot of time to do a huge amount with it, but the work has been in drips over the past two years already with Anna. So yeah, excited for people to see it,” he shared.
While Hamilton has not relocated to Italy, he has spoken fondly of his visits to Maranello, where Ferrari is based. His time there is not limited to addressing the issues he has faced since joining the team; he genuinely enjoys the experience. “I love it. Trying to stay off the pizzas and the pasta, which I’m not doing very well with if I’m honest,” he admitted. “I was there last week and had like three pizzas in two days. I have my hookup – he keeps bringing me a pizza. I text him late after the day and I’m like, ‘Hey, can I get a pizza?’ He keeps bringing me one.”
Hamilton’s enjoyment of his time in Italy is evident, even if he is not currently living there. He expressed a desire to spend more time in the country throughout the year. “My Italian is not really progressing, so I’ve probably got to throw myself more into the thick of it,” he joked.
He also highlighted the ongoing efforts at Ferrari to improve the team’s performance, noting that significant changes have been implemented since his arrival. “The team’s been well. Lots of changes, a huge amount of work has been going on from my first days there to adjust certain things, for example in the sim, and everyone’s been really responsive and massively supportive. So I’ve really appreciated it,” Hamilton explained.
While the challenges of adapting to Ferrari’s environment have not been easy, Hamilton’s determination to overcome them is palpable. His focus remains on refining his skills and enhancing the team’s competitiveness as the season progresses. As he navigates this transitional phase in his career, Hamilton remains committed to the sport and to finding ways to improve his performance on the track.
In the world of Formula 1, where every second counts and performance is paramount, Hamilton’s journey with Ferrari is just beginning. The combination of his vast experience and the fresh challenges he faces with the Scuderia creates a unique narrative that fans and analysts alike will be watching closely. His friendship with Beckham and the admiration he holds for Beckham’s post-career endeavors serve as reminders of the multifaceted nature of athletic life beyond the racetrack.
As Hamilton looks ahead, balancing his racing career with his interests in fashion and personal growth, it is clear that he is not just a driver but also a brand and a figure who influences various realms. The Met Gala and his ongoing projects in fashion are just a few examples of how he is expanding his horizons beyond racing.
Fans and critics will continue to scrutinize Hamilton’s performance in the coming races. With the season in full swing, he will undoubtedly seek to capitalize on every opportunity to showcase his talent and reclaim his status among the top competitors in Formula 1. The road ahead may be challenging, but Hamilton’s resilience and commitment to excellence are traits that have defined his career.
As he deals with the pressures of the sport, Hamilton’s interactions with friends like Beckham provide a sense of perspective. The challenges of professional racing, alongside the realities of life after sport, underscore the importance of adaptability and resilience. Whether he is on the racetrack or attending high-profile events, Hamilton’s journey continues to inspire many, highlighting the dedication required to excel in multiple fields.
In conclusion, while Hamilton’s transition to Ferrari has been fraught with challenges, his determination to improve and grow both as a driver and an individual remains unwavering. The support from the Ferrari team, his experiences in Italy, and his ventures into the fashion world are all integral components of his current narrative, making it one of the most intriguing stories in the world of Formula 1.
