Known for his original outfits in the paddock, Lewis Hamilton was sharply criticized by Otmar Szafnauer. The former team principal nevertheless acknowledges that the Brit knows how to own them.
Lewis Hamilton never goes unnoticed when he arrives at a Formula 1 circuit. Beyond his on-track performances, the seven-time world champion is also recognized for his strong taste in fashion, regularly displaying bold outfits that contrast with those of most drivers.
A style that does not, however, win unanimous approval. Guest on the High Performance Racing podcast, former team principal Otmar Szafnauer did not hesitate to give his opinion on the Ferrari driver’s clothing choices.
“Ridiculous clothes”
During a discussion about drivers’ habits during Grand Prix weekends, the speakers notably mentioned that Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen are among the first to arrive in the paddock.
It was at that moment that Szafnauer slipped in a sharp remark about the Brit.
“Lewis arrives when all the photographers are already there, so he can wear his ridiculous clothes and get photographed.”
Read more The surprising idea of Esteban Ocon to bring F1 back to France
His co-host, Jake Humphrey, however, defended the Ferrari driver’s style, believing that his outfits at least have the merit of being out of the ordinary.
“They are original.”
A remark that did not really convince Szafnauer.
“Original? And isn’t that ridiculous?” he replied.
Hamilton “knows how to wear them”
Despite this criticism, the former team boss ended up acknowledging that Lewis Hamilton possesses an essential quality: he fully owns his style.
“He manages to wear them.”
Szafnauer even went as far as joking about the Brit’s private life, suggesting that his interest in fashion might not be unrelated to his success with certain celebrities.
“I also think fashion helped him with Kim Kardashian.”
For several years, Lewis Hamilton has established himself as one of the most influential figures in Formula 1 off the track. Passionate about fashion, he regularly collaborates with major international houses and brands, making his appearances in the paddock a real event for photographers.
His clothing choices thus continue to divide opinion, some praising his boldness and personal expression, while others, like Otmar Szafnauer, judge them much more extravagant.
Read more Fernando Alonso convinced that Aston Martin will eventually build a winning car