Lewis Hamilton and other Formula 1 drivers came together for a special dinner hosted by F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali before the Austrian Grand Prix weekend. This rare mid-season event provided all 20 current drivers, alongside key stakeholders and officials, an opportunity to connect away from the track.
The dinner took place at one of the hospitality centers in the Austrian Grand Prix paddock at Spielberg, offering a glimpse into the strong camaraderie shared within the Formula 1 community. The entire grid, including Max Verstappen—who had missed a recent drivers’ event connected to the F1 movie—attended the gathering, where drivers shared meals and smiles. Among those seated together were Lewis Hamilton and his former Mercedes teammate George Russell.
With the Austrian Grand Prix marking the approach to the mid-season break of the 2024 Formula 1 campaign, drivers are focused on delivering strong performances for their teams at Spielberg, making the upcoming race weekend a key point in the championship battle.
George Russell Comments on the Drivers’ Exclusive Dinner
George Russell, Lewis Hamilton’s former teammate at Mercedes and current Grand Prix Drivers’ Association director, expressed his gratitude for the dinner arranged by Stefano Domenicali. Posting a photo from the event on his X account, Russell wrote,
“Grazie Stefano for dinner.” —George Russell, Mercedes F1 Driver
Domenicali has been credited for various developments in Formula 1 since his appointment as CEO in January 2021. The dinner was praised by fans on social media, who appreciated the gesture of bringing everyone together during the season.
Russell, who claimed victory at the 2024 Austrian Grand Prix while racing as Hamilton’s teammate, plays a key role representing drivers’ interests in discussions with Formula 1’s governing bodies and officials. His acknowledgment of the event reflects a positive spirit among top-level drivers working alongside F1 management.
Insights Into the Hamilton-Russell Partnership and Its Impact on F1
During their three years as teammates from 2022 to 2024 at Mercedes, George Russell has grown from an emerging talent who arrived from Williams Racing to a race winner and respected team leader. Throughout this period, he has consistently praised Lewis Hamilton’s influence on the sport and his team.
Hamilton’s role extended beyond racing, as he was deeply involved in the production of the recent F1 movie, further highlighting his importance to the sport’s culture and legacy. Russell’s comments and presence at the dinner underscore the respect and admiration within the paddock for the seven-time world champion.
As the Austrian Grand Prix weekend approaches, both drivers prepare to compete fiercely while embracing the camaraderie fostered by events like the drivers’ dinner. Their collaboration and mutual respect exemplify the professionalism and teamwork found at the highest level of motorsport.
