Holiday Privacy a Balancing Act for F1 Celebrities

F1 drivers face a delicate balance between fame and privacy during their holiday breaks.

F1 drivers commence their summer break with a four-week hiatus.

Yet, detaching from the world of Formula 1 is no small feat when one is a celebrity in today’s world.

So how does one reconcile popularity with everyday life away from the paddocks?

“It’s no longer possible to dine out without being disturbed,” Charles Leclerc admits.

“There’s so much positivity, I can’t complain. We live a dream life; I’m in the situation I’ve always dreamt of. Making a living from motorsport is something I’ve wanted since childhood. I’m incredibly fortunate.”

“It comes with moments where I sometimes wish to revert to being a more normal person, to have a normal life where I can walk without being stopped every twenty meters. I am very fortunate to be in the position I’m in.”

Max Verstappen acknowledges that “it’s part of the job.”

“There are times when I wish I had more private moments. However, I know things will calm down when I retire. But for now, I’m always in the limelight and inevitably known, so I’m looking forward to retirement and the focus shifting to upcoming drivers. But I deal with it; I know it’s part of my job.”

Lando Norris, one of the most fan-favorite drivers, recognizes that “maintaining privacy is really tough.”

“For me, it’s the most challenging aspect and what has changed my life the most since I was a child. People always watch you, trying to catch your eye. And it’s not easy to maintain a private life.”

“But the fans are incredible. We can’t complain about that. Especially when you’re a child, a youth. Maybe there’s one who has the same dream I did at 6-7 years old.”

For George Russell, the presence of fans is essential, even if it means sacrificing the tranquility of Mr. Average.

“As a driver, you’re in a privileged position, you’re in a dream job. And we would have taken this job without pay. And here, we earn a lot, a lot of money. The sport is doing so well, perhaps better than ever. And that’s thanks to the fans.”

“And for me, dedicating ten minutes to them won’t change much in my day. But for them, it can have a significant impact and they may never forget it. When you see the reaction of some people, you see that they represent the most important thing in this sport.”

Lewis Hamilton has a solution: “go to less frequented places to encounter as few people as possible! That’s the key to a good vacation, even if you’re not safe from a few photos at events or otherwise. But that’s the game and if it’s just occasionally, it’s manageable.”