British television host Jeremy Clarkson suggested that Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time Formula 1 world champion, began losing popularity after embracing social and political causes often described as “woke.” Despite this claim, Hamilton remains one of the most well-known drivers on the current F1 grid, backed by nearly twenty years of racing success and a massive fanbase.
The 40-year-old driver has also established strong ties outside motorsport, gaining recognition in music and entertainment circles. He has collaborated with fashion designer Tommy Hilfiger and recently served as executive producer on the Hollywood film F1, featuring Brad Pitt.
Shift in Public Perception Following Hamilton’s Changing Focus
In recent years, Lewis Hamilton has presented a different public image, becoming more reserved and less engaged with fans. Writing in a 2021 column for The Sun, Clarkson pinpointed this transformation as a key factor in Hamilton’s declining appeal:
“When he first came on to the scene, he was bright and talented and normal – and everyone loved him. But then he decided to go woke and right-on and more politically correct than a student union AGM.”
“He talks about how he’s now green because he sold his jet and has urged everyone to be vegetarian. All this might work well on social media, but in the real world, where people live, it doesn’t work at all,” he added.
Clarkson’s remarks reflect a tension between Hamilton’s advocacy efforts—such as environmentalism and lifestyle changes—and the expectations of his broader fanbase.
Criticism of Hamilton’s Integration with Ferrari in 2025 Season
Clarkson also expressed dissatisfaction with how Hamilton joined the Ferrari team at the start of the 2025 F1 season. He argued that the driver should have immediately immersed himself in the team’s operations, rather than arriving late with a more celebrity-like approach.
“If he’s so keen on that eighth world title, you’d imagine that he’d have arrived at the factory on day one, keen to know the car’s secrets and how he can extract the most from its vast arsenal of racing trickery.”
“Instead, he turned up in an SUV in a suit and tie and posed for pictures before talking to fans, under the watchful eye of a video drone, which luckily was there to capture the moment. He doesn’t even commute in a Ferrari road car, choosing instead to use Fiat’s helicopter. What is Lewis now? A driver? Or a superstar?” he added.
Hamilton’s arrival generated excitement across social media, as fans anticipated a successful union between the seasoned champion and the iconic Italian team. Yet on track, the results have fallen short, with Hamilton struggling to outperform his teammate Charles Leclerc.
Impact on Hamilton’s Career and Fans’ Expectations Moving Forward
The debate ignited by Clarkson reflects broader uncertainties regarding Hamilton’s future in Formula 1, especially as he balances racing ambitions with personal beliefs and public roles. His shift toward activism and celebrity presence has created a disconnect for some followers who admired his earlier, more straightforward racing persona.
As Hamilton continues to compete with Ferrari, questions remain about whether he can regain dominance and popularity simultaneously. The ongoing rivalry with Charles Leclerc and Hamilton’s ability to adapt to his new team’s environment will be critical in shaping both his legacy and fan support in the coming seasons.
