What Famous F1 Drivers Enjoy Doing in Their Spare Time

Formula 1 may be the world’s most demanding motorsport, but its stars still find time to unwind. Away from the roar of the engines, they explore passions that range from extreme sports to music and fashion. Many of them use their rare moments of calm to recharge, while others seek fresh thrills in entirely different arenas. From Lewis Hamilton’s competitive edge at the card table to Max Verstappen’s relentless focus on racing simulations, each driver has found a unique outlet that reflects his personality.



Lewis Hamilton



Lewis Hamilton’s reputation extends well beyond the pit lane. Known for his drive, his fashion sense, and his advocacy on global issues, he also enjoys testing his tactical mind in games of chance and skill. Over the years, Hamilton has been spotted at major poker events and even entered high roller tournaments. His love of competition seems to translate naturally into this environment, where focus, patience, and instinct make the difference between success and defeat.



For the average casino enthusiast, life is a little less glamorous. Many locals now prefer a free spins no deposit win real money kind of gaming platform, drawn by their low-risk excitement and instant accessibility. These platforms offer perks such as bonus rounds, no mandatory sign-up fees, and quick payouts, making them particularly popular among players who enjoy entertainment without heavy commitments.



When a high-profile figure like Hamilton shows interest in activities like these, popular iGaming sites often see a spike in users, such is the massive influence of celebrities of his stature. It also adds a layer of glamour and mystique to gaming when massively popular sports stars like Hamilton indulge in them as it makes fans feel connected to their favourite stars.



Hamilton’s presence in the scene captures that blend of intellect and charisma that defines his broader appeal, demonstrating that even in leisure, he thrives on strategic challenges.



Max Verstappen



Max Verstappen’s passion for racing does not end when he steps out of his Red Bull. In his downtime, he often returns to virtual tracks, competing in online sim racing tournaments under his own name. He has built a professional-level setup at home and even owns an eSports team, Team Redline, which regularly participates in endurance and Formula-style virtual events.



This commitment to digital racing speaks volumes about his mindset. For Verstappen, simulation is more than practice, it’s a form of recreation that keeps his reflexes sharp and his competitive edge intact. Many fellow drivers use simulators for training, but Verstappen’s involvement is far more immersive. He has admitted that long sessions at the rig help him relax, even after intense race weekends. It’s a reflection of his deep-seated love for the sport and his endless appetite for precision, speed, and improvement.



Charles Leclerc



For Charles Leclerc, music provides a different kind of rhythm. The Ferrari driver has become known for his musical talent, especially at the piano. He began playing during his early racing years as a way to clear his mind, and now it has evolved into a full creative pursuit. During quieter months, Leclerc often shares clips of his compositions with fans online, revealing a side of him that values calm and introspection .



His musical expression contrasts sharply with the controlled aggression required on the track. Playing the piano offers him both focus and release, a mental space far removed from split-second decisions and pressure-filled laps. Fans admire how he balances such intensity in racing with artistry in music. It shows that discipline and creativity can coexist, giving insight into the thoughtful, reflective character behind the helmet.



Lando Norris



Lando Norris has carved out a place as one of Formula 1’s most engaging personalities. When he isn’t driving for McLaren, he can often be found streaming video games online. His Twitch broadcasts gained massive popularity, not only for his gaming skill but also for his sense of humour and connection with fans. Norris’s online presence grew so quickly that he co-founded a lifestyle and esports brand, Quadrant, blending gaming, motorsport, and digital culture.



Through this venture, Norris has turned his hobby into a bridge between audiences that rarely overlap. His authenticity resonates strongly with younger fans, who see him as relatable and approachable. It’s an example of how the new generation of F1 drivers understands the importance of digital engagement and creativity. Norris’s ability to mix fun, teamwork, and technology reflects a modern approach to stardom, one where interaction matters as much as performance.



George Russell



George Russell’s approach to downtime is disciplined, mirroring his style behind the wheel. The Mercedes driver is known for maintaining an exceptional level of fitness, often training during off-days rather than resting completely. Cycling and gym sessions remain central to his schedule, but he also places importance on mindfulness and rest.



When he’s not feuding with Max Verstappen , Russell has spoken about finding mental clarity through reading and structured routines. His belief that preparation creates calm has made him one of the most methodical athletes on the grid. Away from racing, he prefers quieter environments, spending time with close friends and family rather than public outings. His dedication to physical and mental balance highlights how modern F1 drivers view recovery as part of performance, not separate from it.



Carlos Sainz Jr.



Carlos Sainz Jr. has a long-standing love for outdoor sports, particularly golf. Whether in Spain or abroad, he often plays during race breaks, valuing the focus and patience the game demands. Golf appeals to Sainz’s competitive spirit but offers a slower pace and social aspect that racing cannot.



He also enjoys hiking and exploring natural settings, often sharing glimpses of his adventures on social media. These pursuits keep him grounded and physically active, while still offering the peace he rarely finds during the racing season. The balance of challenge and calm makes these activities a perfect fit for him. Sainz’s competitive instinct never fades, but he channels it into hobbies that reward precision, patience, and control—the same traits that make him strong on the circuit.



Oscar Piastri



As one of the youngest talents in Formula 1, Oscar Piastri’s life off-track remains relatively private. What is known, however, paints a picture of calm focus. The Australian driver spends much of his time between races studying performance data, keeping a low profile, and occasionally joining light-hearted online gaming sessions with fellow drivers.



He also enjoys spending time with his family when back in Australia and has mentioned his love for simple routines—good food, quiet evenings, and the occasional road trip. Piastri’s understated approach to fame and recreation suggests a maturity well beyond his years. His ability to switch off from the public eye, yet remain fully committed to improvement, speaks to the discipline that brought him to the sport’s top level so quickly.



More Than Racing



The lives of Formula 1 drivers are a blend of intensity and individuality. Each one channels energy in a different direction when the chequered flag falls. Whether through music, fitness, gaming, or charitable causes, their hobbies reveal who they are when the helmets come off. These glimpses into their off-track passions remind fans that behind every record lap and daring overtake lies a person searching, just like anyone else, for balance, inspiration, and joy in the spaces between races.
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