From Yachts to Disneyland: How F1 Drivers Welcomed the New Year
F1 drivers enjoyed a final break before the 2026 season, with Lewis Hamilton partying with celebrities and Max Verstappen on a yacht, showcasing the grid's diverse off-season lifestyles.
As the Formula 1 world prepares for a massive 2026 season with new regulations, drivers took their final moments of respite to celebrate the New Year in style. From celebrity-studded parties in Aspen to tranquil getaways in Bhutan, the grid's stars showcased the diverse ways they recharge before the racing action resumes.
Why it matters:
These glimpses into the drivers' personal lives humanize the elite athletes fans watch on track every other weekend. The brief off-season is a crucial mental and physical reset, and with the 2026 season promising a major technical overhaul, this final break marks the calm before a storm of intense development and on-track battles.
The details:
- Lewis Hamilton: The seven-time world champion was spotted at actress Kate Hudson's lavish New Year's Eve party in Aspen, joining a guest list of A-list celebrities including Kim Kardashian and Bella Hadid.
- Max Verstappen: The reigning champion celebrated on a yacht with partner Kelly Piquet and friends, bringing in 2026 while watching fireworks over the water.
- Alex Albon: The Williams driver opted for a more spiritual retreat, visiting Bhutan with his partner, professional golfer Lily Muni He. He called it a reminder of "what really matters."
- Esteban Ocon: The Haas driver kept it playful, sharing photos from his trip to Disneyland Paris with his partner, Flavy Barla.
- Lando Norris & Oscar Piastri: While the McLaren teammates didn't post themselves, they were reportedly enjoying downtime in the Caribbean and at an Australian vineyard, respectively.
- Oliver Bearman: The young Haas driver reflected on a "challenging but rewarding" 2025 and set his sights firmly on "2026!" in a social media recap of his year.
What's next:
The holiday fun is officially over, and the paddock's focus now shifts entirely to the looming 2026 season. Teams are putting the finishing touches on their revolutionary new cars, and drivers will soon be back in simulators before heading to pre-season testing. These brief moments of relaxation will be replaced by the intense pressure of a season that could redefine the competitive order in Formula 1.