Lewis Hamilton is navigating more than just the challenges of the racetrack as Formula 1 heads into the US Grand Prix in Austin.
Off-track developments, particularly rumors linking former Red Bull boss Christian Horner to Ferrari, have added an extra layer of distraction for the seven-time world champion.
Horner has emerged as a potential replacement for Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur if the team’s results fail to improve.
Hamilton, currently sixth in the drivers’ standings and 211 points behind leader Oscar Piastri, remains firmly in Vasseur’s corner.
The Frenchman recently signed a three-year contract extension in July and continues to have the backing of Ferrari chairman John Elkann.
Meanwhile, Horner would not be available to take any new role until next April.
Staying Focused Despite Off-Track Rumors
Speaking ahead of the US Grand Prix, Hamilton acknowledged the impact of the swirling Ferrari speculation but emphasized the importance of keeping the team’s focus on performance.
“It is a little bit distracting for us,” Hamilton admitted. “The team have made it clear where things stand in terms of re-signing Fred.
Fred and the whole team are working really hard on the future.
For me, it is about keeping the focus on the goal in front of us and building next year’s car so that we can have better execution and better performance.”
Even with the noise surrounding Ferrari’s leadership, Hamilton’s eyes remain firmly on the track, highlighting his commitment to the team’s ongoing development.
Hamilton Tries Riding Horses for the First Time in Years
Away from Formula 1, Hamilton recently dipped his toes — or rather, his stirrups — into the world of horseback riding.
He hadn’t been near horses since he was 14 due to a severe allergy desensitisation programme, but a recent photoshoot offered the perfect opportunity to give it another try.
“I had a photoshoot with a horse and I asked if I could ride it. It was an amazing experience,” he said.
“I got on and it started moving and when it started to gallop I didn’t know what to do and panicked a bit.
I am really excited about this phase of my life where I want to get into horses a little bit more.”
This glimpse into Hamilton’s personal life shows a softer, adventurous side to the racing superstar, hinting at new passions beyond the high-octane world of Formula 1.
Texas Race Weekend Declared a Heat Hazard
On the racing front, this weekend’s Circuit of the Americas event in Texas is set to test drivers under extreme conditions.
For the second race in a row, the Grand Prix has been declared a “heat hazard” under F1’s updated rules, with temperatures expected to reach at least 31°C during both the sprint race on Saturday and the main Grand Prix on Sunday.
Though not as humid as Singapore two weeks ago, the heat hazard designation allows drivers to wear cooling vests inside their cars, helping to manage the intense physical demands.
On Thursday, the mercury already reached 27°C, signalling what could be a challenging weekend for the grid.
Balancing Life on and off the Track
From off-track distractions surrounding Ferrari leadership to new adventures with horseback riding, Hamilton is juggling multiple challenges while preparing for the next chapter in his career.
Despite the external noise and rising temperatures in Austin, the seven-time world champion remains focused on refining performance and embracing life beyond racing.