Lewis Hamilton Reportedly Pays for F1 Drivers' Dinner in Abu Dhabi
Lewis Hamilton reportedly covered the entire bill for the traditional F1 drivers' dinner in Abu Dhabi, gathering 17 fellow competitors ahead of the season finale. George Russell's comments hinted at Hamilton's generosity, following Valtteri Bottas's turn last year. This gesture, amidst Hamilton's challenging season and upcoming move to Ferrari, highlights his enduring camaraderie within the F1 paddock.
Ahead of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the traditional end-of-season drivers' dinner for the 2025 class took place, sparking immediate speculation about who would foot the bill. While 17 drivers gathered for an enjoyable evening, all eyes were on social media for clues, with strong hints pointing towards Lewis Hamilton.
Why it matters:
The annual drivers' dinner is a cherished tradition, fostering camaraderie among competitors before the final race. The identity of the bill payer often becomes a talking point, symbolizing a gesture of goodwill among rivals. For Hamilton, in what has been a challenging season, taking on this role underscores his continued leadership and connection with the F1 community, even as he prepares for a significant team change in 2025.
The Details:
- Attendees: 17 drivers from the 2025 class were present, with only the two Aston Martin drivers and Nico Hulkenberg noted as absent.
- The Big Reveal: Mercedes driver George Russell hinted at Lewis Hamilton being the one who settled the tab, stating, "Lewis (Hamilton) was in charge of the order and he literally ordered everything. Everything possible on the menu." This strongly suggests Hamilton generously covered the extensive meal for his fellow drivers.
- Past Precedent: Last year, Valtteri Bottas confirmed he paid for the dinner, revealing the cost was approximately 20,000 local currency, which he noted was "my pleasure." This sets a precedent for a single driver covering the expense, often a veteran or a driver making a significant transition.
- Hamilton's Message: Despite enduring his most challenging F1 season in terms of results, the seven-time world champion played a central role in organizing the gathering. He was among the first to share a photo of the dinner on Instagram, accompanied by a heartfelt message to his colleagues, emphasizing the importance of their collective journey.
The big picture:
This yearly dinner not only highlights the unique bond shared by F1 drivers but also offers a glimpse into their off-track dynamics. It's a moment of shared humanity and mutual respect, transcending fierce on-track competition. For Hamilton, this act of generosity comes at a poignant time as he prepares for his move to Ferrari in 2025, marking one of his final acts of camaraderie within the current F1 paddock structure.
What's next:
The tradition of the drivers' dinner is expected to continue next year, with speculation already brewing about which driver will take on the mantle of host and bill-payer for the 2026 class. As F1 continues to evolve, these personal moments of connection remain a vital part of the sport's culture, symbolizing the unique brotherhood among these elite athletes.