During Formula 1pre-seasontesting in Bahrain, George Russell playfully asked Lewis Hamilton about his current relationship status amidst swirling rumors linking the seven-time world champion with American reality star Kim Kardashian. This cheeky exchange brought Hamilton’s personal life briefly into the spotlight during a highly anticipated testing period for the upcoming F1 season.
Background on Rumored Romance Between Hamilton and Kardashian
The speculation surrounding Hamilton and Kardashian’s relationship began earlier in February when The Sun reported that the pair had shared a “romantic weekend getaway” in Oxfordshire. According to the report, they stayed together in the main house and took exclusive advantage of the spa and pool facilities in the evening. Following this, Kardashian, aged 45, was seen attending the Super Bowl alongside Hamilton, further fueling dating rumors. Neither Hamilton nor Kardashian has publicly addressed these claims.
Media Scrutiny and Hamilton’s Private Response
As the rumors grew, Sky Sports F1 reporter Ted Kravitz revealed that during Bahrain testing, a member of the written press directly questioned Hamilton about his relationship. The 41-year-old driver declined to confirm or deny the reports, responding simply,
“It’s my private life, I’m not talking about that.”
?Lewis Hamilton, F1 Driver
Russell’s Good-Natured Tease Before Bahrain Pre-Season Photoshoot
On the first day of the third and final pre-season test ahead of the 2026 Formula 1 season, all drivers assembled for the traditional group photoshoot. Seizing the moment, Russell, who once shared a Mercedes garage with Hamilton, turned to the Ferrari driver and asked with a grin,
Image of: George Russell
“All loved up or… what’s the latest?”
?George Russell, F1 Driver
Hamilton responded with a smile, prompting laughter from Russell, who then affectionately placed his hand on Hamilton’s shoulder. Nearby, drivers Isack Hadjar and Alex Albon stood quietly, opting not to engage in the banter.
On-Track Performance During Bahrain Testing
Aside from off-track intrigue, Hamilton’s performance in Bahrain showed promise; he finished the first day of testing in seventh place. Ferrari demonstrated strong reliability overall, with Hamilton spending a brief spell in the pits in the afternoon as the team made adjustments to his car. Hamilton and teammate Charles Leclerc completed a combined total of 114 laps, placing Ferrari sixth for most laps among teams on day one.
Hamilton’s Positive Outlook on the New 2026 Car
During his media duties, Hamilton shared optimistic thoughts on the early development of the new generation 2026 F1 car. He said,
“With the car, I think we’ve started off quite well so far.”
?Lewis Hamilton, F1 Driver
He added that the new vehicle represents a fresh beginning compared to the previous year:
“It’s an exciting time with the new generation of cars, because it’s all brand new, and we’re all trying to figure it out on the go.”
?Lewis Hamilton, F1 Driver
Highlighting his personal involvement in the car’s creation, Hamilton noted,
“This is a car that I’ve been able to be a part of developing on the simulator, and so a bit of my DNA is within. I’m more connected to this one, for sure.”
?Lewis Hamilton, F1 Driver
Significance of This Season’s Pre-Season Dynamics
The interactions between Russell and Hamilton during the Bahrain test provide a reminder of their past team relationship and mutual respect, even as Hamilton faces intense media scrutiny over his personal life. The testing phase also offers a glimpse of Hamilton’s deepening connection with Ferrari’s 2026 car, which could impact his competitive edge. Observers will be watching closely to see how these early developments affect both drivers’ performances and the unfolding 2026 championship battle.
