Lewis Hamilton may be grappling with challenges at Ferrari as he heads into a crucial week for his Formula 1 team, but that is not the only thought occupying his mind. The 40-year-old, seven-time world champion has had a rocky start since moving to Maranello for the 2025 season, and the struggles have been evident as he has been consistently outpaced by his teammate, Charles Leclerc. Last weekend’s Saudi Grand Prix was particularly tough, with Hamilton finishing seventh, a significant 30 seconds behind Leclerc in a 50-lap race that left him searching for answers.
As Hamilton prepares for the upcoming Miami Grand Prix this weekend, it might seem that the race is his primary focus. However, the Met Gala, renowned for its glitz and glamour, also looms large on his calendar. Just 24 hours after the Miami race, Hamilton will take on the significant role of co-chair for the 2025 edition of the Met Gala alongside music icon Pharrell Williams. This prestigious event will take place at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, showcasing this year’s theme: “Black Dandyism,” which will highlight the profound influence of Black culture on fashion, particularly in menswear.
Hamilton considers this opportunity as monumental, reflecting not only on personal significance but also on a broader societal impact. In his own words to Vogue, he stated, “Of course, I always wanted to go to the Met Gala, and I got invited for the first time in 2015. It’s always been a privilege to attend, but in 2021, I no longer wanted to just be another person in the room.” His vision began taking shape as he collaborated with stylist Law Roach to create a space that elevated rising Black designers during the event.
This ambition highlights Hamilton’s commitment to amplifying underrepresented voices in fashion. He reflects on how that night in 2021 opened up a dialogue about creating opportunities and showcasing talent. Fast forward to the present, Hamilton is looking to reroute that conversation at this year’s gala. “Naturally, I hope this year’s Met Gala sparks conversation and reconfirms the connection between fashion and self-expression,
he explained, emphasizing the importance of ownership over one’s identity in fashion.
As he gears up for the Met Gala, Hamilton is not only focused on the opportunity itself, but also the message it conveys amidst broader conversations surrounding diversity—especially in the United States. He stated, “If you think about where we are in the world – and particularly in the States, in terms of people pulling back on diversity – I think this Met Gala sends a really strong message that we must continue to celebrate and elevate Black history.”
In addition to his role at the gala, Hamilton is known for shaping the fashion conversation within the F1 paddock, effectively transforming practice days into exhibitions of style. His grand entrances have become almost legendary, and as he prepares for the Met Gala, he is considering carefully what his latest look will convey. “When I look at the images of Black men from the past – images like the ones in the exhibit – they were so stylish,” Hamilton remarked, highlighting the significance of their representation.
Collaborating with stylist Eric McNeal, Hamilton conveys the thoughtfulness that goes into his fashion choices. “We’re both very thoughtful and intentional when it comes to fashion,” he added, expressing a desire for attendees to deeply consider their wardrobe selections and appreciate the featured exhibit and its storytelling.
Co-chairing the Met Gala alongside Pharrell Williams elevates this moment for Hamilton, marking a special occasion that he recognizes. “Timing is everything, and to have co-chaired a previous Met Gala wouldn’t have been as special. I’m really proud,” he expressed. The surreal nature of this partnership resonates with him as he recalls watching Pharrell in his youth and admiring his style; now, they stand together in a position that amplifies their collective legacy.
The moment is going to be huge. A testament to our legacy. A message that it can’t be erased,” Hamilton concluded, summing up the sentiment surrounding this pivotal event.
This dual focus on Ferrari’s struggles and the impending Met Gala encapsulates a week filled with dramatic contrasts for Lewis Hamilton. As the world watches, the significance of both the race track and the fashion stage will play a vital role in shaping his journey moving forward, intertwining the fast-paced world of racing with the art of self-expression.
