Formula 1 has always been about speed, precision, and adrenaline — but the spectacle goes far beyond the racetrack.
Fans have long admired not just the talent and competitive spirit of the drivers, but also their striking looks and the glamorous world that surrounds them.
Over the decades, from the 1950s right up to today, F1’s allure has blended fast cars with fast lifestyles, marked by iconic drivers and their equally captivating partners.
This year’s crop of stylish WAGs (wives and girlfriends) continue that tradition, cheering on their champions in the pitlane while stealing the spotlight themselves.
From Kelly Piquet, dating Max Verstappen, to Rebecca Donaldson supporting Carlos Sainz and Alexandra Saint Mleux alongside Charles Leclerc, the modern pitlane scene is as dazzling as ever.
But to really appreciate the glamour, it helps to take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of the most unforgettable couples who defined Formula 1’s rich history.
1950s: Louise King and Peter Collins — A Brief but Brilliant Love
In the 1950s, American actress Louise King and British Ferrari driver Peter Collins were the epitome of a glamorous racing couple.
Their whirlwind romance began in a Miami bar in 1957 — after just two days, Peter proposed, and a week later they were married.
At only 24, Louise was touring with a Broadway show, while Peter was just hitting his stride as a racing star.
He had a promising career ahead, winning the British Grand Prix and placing well in other major races.
Tragically, his life and career were cut short in a fatal crash during the German Grand Prix, just weeks after their wedding and when they were just starting their life together.
Louise always remembered Peter as the great love of her life, even as she moved on, marrying again and later volunteering in Florida.
She passed away in 2021, but her story remains a touching reminder of the highs and heartbreaks behind F1’s glamour.
1960s: Lady Helen Stewart and Sir Jackie Stewart — The Original Power Couple
Fast forward to the 1960s, where the British racing legend Sir Jackie Stewart and his wife Lady Helen were Formula 1’s first iconic couple.
Helen was not just a glamorous presence but also the “original pit lane girl,” timing Jackie’s laps with precision at every race.
Married since 1962 after a teenage romance, the Stewarts shared a life full of racing victories, luxury, and high society connections — including a longstanding friendship with Princess Anne.
Jackie won three world championships and later became a knight, while Helen balanced the spotlight with a brief acting career.
Their partnership was strong, surviving the ups and downs of life on and off the track.
Sadly, Helen was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia over a decade ago, and Jackie has since dedicated himself to raising awareness through the Race Against Dementia charity.
Their story is one of love, loyalty, and resilience.
1970s: Suzy Hunt and James Hunt — The It Couple of Racing
The 1970s brought us the charismatic James Hunt, whose racing career and high-profile rivalry were immortalized in the movie Rush.
His marriage to supermodel Suzy Miller was the talk of the town, with their 1974 wedding heralded as society’s event of the year.
Suzy, known for her striking presence rather than traditional beauty, swept James off his feet during a whirlwind romance.
Though the marriage was tumultuous — with James famously uncertain and often partying before the wedding — Suzy’s charm added a new dimension to his public image.
Their story took a dramatic turn when Suzy left James for actor Richard Burton, leading to a costly divorce settlement.
James Hunt died young, at 45, but his legend in F1 and his larger-than-life personality remain unforgettable.
The Tale of Barbro Peterson and Ronnie Peterson — Love and Loss on the Track
Barbro Peterson met her husband, Swedish Lotus driver Ronnie Peterson, amid the swinging 60s club scene in Sweden.
She followed him into the high-octane world of F1, even serving as his timekeeper in the pits, fully involved in his racing life.
The couple married in 1975 and settled mainly in England but enjoyed homes in Monaco and Sweden.
Their happiness was cut tragically short in 1978 when Ronnie died after a horrific crash during the Italian Grand Prix.
Barbro struggled deeply with the loss, eventually dying by suicide less than a decade later.
Their daughter was raised by family, and those who knew the couple remember them as soulmates who shared a rare and intense bond.
1980s: Lady Susie Moss and Sir Stirling Moss — A Love That Endured
Lady Susie Moss and Sir Stirling Moss’ relationship began in childhood and blossomed into a lifelong partnership.
Despite a significant age gap, their marriage in 1980 was marked by devotion and adventure, traveling the world together and supporting Stirling’s legendary racing career.
Stirling survived many dangers on the track and off, including a serious fall at home in his later years.
He passed away in 2020, with Susie by his side.
She herself died a few years later, heartbroken after losing the love of her life.
Their story is often described as one of the greatest love stories in racing, highlighting loyalty and companionship over decades.
1990s: Adriane Galisteu and Ayrton Senna — A Love Cut Short
Brazilian model Adriane Galisteu met Ayrton Senna during the 1993 Brazilian Grand Prix, and their romance quickly became one of the most talked-about in F1.
Adriane often accompanied Senna to glamorous race destinations like Monaco, enjoying the thrill of the racing lifestyle.
Despite their strong connection, Senna’s family reportedly disapproved of Adriane, causing tension.
Their relationship ended abruptly when Senna tragically died during the 1994 San Marino Grand Prix, one of the darkest days in F1 history.
Adriane’s story reminds us how fleeting and fragile the lives and loves in the fast lane can be.
Looking Ahead to Silverstone’s 75th Anniversary
This year, as Silverstone celebrates 75 years of Formula 1 racing, the circuit will once again shine with a mix of speed, style, and star power.
The WAGs and drivers of today continue a legacy built by these iconic couples—combining glamour, heartbreak, and passion in equal measure.
From the fast-paced thrills on the track to the radiant presence of those supporting from the sidelines, Formula 1 remains a world where love and racing history intertwine.