F1 drivers like Lewis Hamilton are quite a rare sight in the sport. While there have been equally talented and gifted drivers, like him, few have managed to be such an influential figure as the seven-time British world champion. Aside from his dominance in F1, he has also emerged as a vocal advocate for animal rights and equal rights. But amidst all that, fans have often wondered if the F1 star is vegan or not.

In the midst of Mercedes‘ domination, back in 2017, Hamilton began following a vegan diet after realizing the harmful impact of animal farming. Fascinatingly, an enlightening conversation with a friend in New York sparked this awakening. Following this, motivated by a genuine desire to disassociate from the cruelty intrinsic to the industry. Hamilton’s commitment to his values has not only defied skepticism about being an elite-level athlete on a plant-based diet. But has also fueled his unparalleled success in F1 racing.

The Vegan Journey of Lewis Hamilton

Propelled by a profound awakening to the environmental repercussions of animal agriculture, Hamilton started his vegan journey in 2017. According to Plants Based News, he has addressed the global impact of animal farming on the environment. In a conversation with BBC, he vocalized, “The human race, what we are doing to the world … the pollution coming from the amount of cows that are being produced is incredible. The cruelty is horrible and I don’t necessarily want to support that and I want to live a healthier life.”

Through his determination, Hamilton has managed to shut down a major skepticism amongst people. Protein intake in a diet is a major aspect of an elite athlete to have a high-functioning body. However, because other food types have considerably healthier protein content in them, vegan food has been regarded as an inferior food choice. Especially for elite athletes like Lewis Hamilton.

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However, that does not seem to be the case for the F1 legend. He not only continued his strong performances but also won championships between 2017 and 2020. And especially in quite a dominating fashion. Moreover, during this period, he matched Michael Schumacher, a Ferrari icon and an all-time great of F1, in world championship titles.

Hamilton’s impactful advocacy and controversy with PETA

Besides what he eats, Hamilton has used his popular social media influence to talk about animal rights. With almost 50 million followers across several platforms, Hamilton has vocally taken a stance against whale hunting in the Faroe Islands. Further, he has urged people to end the cruelty to the animals. Moreover, he has vocally disapproved of the leather industry. He has also asked his team and team principal, Toto Wolff, to transition to vegan alternatives.

Despite his advocacy efforts, in typical F1 fashion, the former McLaren driver has had some controversy. Specifically, when PETA openly criticized him regarding the sponsorship of the Iditarod race by F1’s parent company, Liberty Media. However, he stayed true to himself and his goals by affirming his dedication to the well-being of animals and a sustainable future. Making his journey of veganism a transformative shift in the realm of professional sports.

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This showcases how his impact extends far beyond his racing skills. Drivers like Lewis Hamilton, and even Sebastian Vettel, who are not afraid to speak for what’s right, are important to the sport. The good days of the bromance between these two F1 world champs are seriously missed!