British television presenter Jeremy Clarkson recently reignited discussions about Lewis Hamilton‘s public image by questioning when the seven-time Formula 1 world champion began adopting an American lifestyle. Over the past decade, Hamilton’s success on the track and distinctive personality off it have made him one of the most recognizable figures in modern motorsport, especially in the United States.
The 40-year-old driver has not only excelled in racing but also expanded his presence beyond the sport, forging connections in American fashion and entertainment circles. He frequently attends major social events across the country and has spent a significant amount of his downtime living in the United States for more than ten years. Hamilton has openly acknowledged the influence of Hip-Hop culture and American fashion on his life, which initially unsettled some racing enthusiasts who expected him to remain more tied to his British roots.
Clarkson, known for hosting popular shows like “Top Gear” and “The Grand Tour,” was among those who expressed discomfort with Hamilton’s shift in lifestyle. In a 2016 tweet, he asked:
“When did Lewis Hamilton decide to be an American?”
—Jeremy Clarkson, Television Presenter
At that time, Hamilton faced criticism for his bold fashion choices within the paddock and was accused of prioritizing his off-track persona over his racing career. Despite these challenges, he continued to embrace his evolving identity without apology.
Lewis Hamilton Calls for Transformation in Formula 1’s Impact
Hamilton has also used his platform to push for significant reforms within Formula 1. Speaking to RTBF, he emphasized the need for improved conditions and broader influence beyond just racing, including greater freedom for drivers under restrictive contracts. He explained the limitations currently in place:
“Drivers are bound by contracts that prevent them from talking to other teams. They can’t even talk to other teams. F1 has grown enormously, with revenues skyrocketing from £700 million to over £3 billion. This growth is not reflected in all employees’ salaries, which have not kept pace with the business.”
—Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari Driver
Beyond contractual issues, Hamilton stressed environmental responsibility as a priority for the sport, highlighting waste problems at race events and advocating for sustainable practices:
“When we visit all these countries, we must avoid leaving a mess behind. There should be upcycling and a proper recycling system. Every weekend, food is wasted. Meanwhile, people are dying of hunger.
“We can work with food banks to redistribute it. There are so many positive things we can do here. Not everything has been done yet, and that’s normal. It’s not about being perfect, but about making progress every year.”
—Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari Driver
Throughout his career, Hamilton has consistently championed causes such as diversity in Formula 1 and reducing environmental impact. After leaving Mercedes for Ferrari, he continues to lead by example, having abandoned his private jet use and switched to electric vehicles for daily transportation to lower his carbon emissions.
Hamilton’s journey from a British racing star to a figure deeply influenced by American culture has generated mixed reactions, reflecting a tension between old-school expectations and modern identity in sports. His outspoken stance on social and environmental issues also suggests a broader vision for how Formula 1 can evolve beyond racing, potentially inspiring changes that resonate within the global community the sport touches.
