In 2023, following a challenging Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, Formula 1 drivers Lando Norris and Lewis Hamilton shared an unexpected golf session that revealed a lighter side of the intense competition on the F1 circuit. This impromptu round of golf took place shortly after the race and offered a glimpse of the camaraderie that exists beyond the racetrack.
Golf has evolved from a simple pastime into a significant social activity within the Formula 1 community. The sport has become an integral part of driver life away from racing, helping foster friendships and relaxation amidst the high-pressure environment of the sport.
How Golf Became a Growing Passion for Lando Norris
The rise of golf’s popularity in the F1 paddock can largely be attributed to the close friendship between Lando Norris and Carlos Sainz, former McLaren teammates. Previously skeptical about the game, Norris once described golf as ‘the most boring thing ever.’ However, Sainz encouraged him to give it a try, sparking Norris’s interest and eventual passion for the sport.
Since then, Norris admits to being ‘fully addicted’ to golf, regularly discussing and playing the game. His growing enthusiasm was marked by a notable invitation to play at Augusta National, the iconic venue for The Masters, following his first Formula 1 victory at the 2024 Miami Grand Prix.
Details of Norris’s Memorable Round with Seven-Time Champion Lewis Hamilton
During a live stream on his Twitch channel in 2023, Norris recounted the story of how he ended up playing a full 18-hole game with Lewis Hamilton, who is now a Ferrari driver and one of Norris’s main rivals on the track. The encounter happened when Norris was at the driving range and Hamilton arrived accompanied by his uncle Terry. Hamilton invited Norris to join their round, and Norris eagerly accepted.
Describing the experience, Norris said it was a ‘mint game.’ When asked about Hamilton’s golfing ability, Norris revealed,
“He’s like 15, or 16. He’s alright, he’s got a nice swing.”
Lewis Hamilton later shared a selfie from the tee box featuring himself, Norris, and Uncle Terry, captioned,
“Golf [with] Lando and Uncle Terry. Great game, okay photos.”
The photo captured considerable attention, earning over a million likes on Instagram.
Carlos Sainz: Recognized as the Most Skilled Golfer in Formula 1
Carlos Sainz holds a reputation as the best golfer among the Formula 1 drivers, with a handicap estimated around 8 or 9. Known for his technically precise playing style, Sainz frequently assists other teammates in developing their golf game. His proficiency in the sport gained wider recognition following his victory in the inaugural Netflix Cup in 2023, where he teamed up with PGA professional Justin Thomas.
Aside from Sainz and Norris, Lance Stroll has established himself as a formidable golf player on the grid, though he tends to keep his rounds private and away from social media spotlight. Fellow drivers often praise Stroll for his natural athleticism and golf talent, placing him among the strongest players in the paddock.
Golf’s Growing Influence on Formula 1 Culture and Future Prospects
The increasing embrace of golf among Formula 1 drivers such as Lando Norris, Lewis Hamilton, and Carlos Sainz highlights a shift in how these athletes unwind and build relationships off the racetrack. Lando Norris’s “golf session” with Hamilton represents not just a break from competition but also a symbol of mutual respect and friendship within the sport.
As golf continues to weave itself into the lifestyle of F1 drivers, it is likely that these sessions will become more frequent, fostering camaraderie and offering players a chance to focus on precision and calm—qualities that directly complement their racing careers. Fans can expect more stories like this as the sport’s social dynamics evolve alongside the competitive excitement of Formula 1.
