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via Imago

via Imago

In a world where celebrity endorsements can cost millions, Lewis Hamilton turns the table. An Instagram post from a celebrity can command thousands, if not millions of dollars in promotional fees, Lewis Hamilton chose to flaunt a suitcase without taking a dime. Lewis Hamilton may be eagerly gearing up for this weekend’s Italian GP, but it’s not just speed that’s on his mind. Hamilton recently showcased a $9,900 accessory that isn’t part of his race gear. Spoiler alert: It has nothing to do with F1 and everything to do with NBA legend LeBron James’ latest entrepreneurial venture. While the F1 world buzzes about Hamilton’s contract renewal with Mercedes until 2025, it’s this $0 promotion that has us talking in a different sphere.

In a unique partnership that melds sports, luxury, and lifestyle, NBA superstar LeBron James teamed up with high-end luggage brand Rimowa to create an exclusive line of travel cases specifically designed for wine enthusiasts. This limited-edition collection features wine cases crafted with Rimowa’s iconic grooved aluminum and accented by James’ personal touches, such as custom leather handles and inner compartments tailored to fit wine bottles and accessories.

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Far from just a vanity project, the collaboration is rooted in both LeBron’s love for fine wines and Rimowa’s heritage of top-tier craftsmanship. Each case is not only a fashion statement but also a functional piece of art, thoughtfully designed to provide the most discerning travelers with a new way to carry and showcase their favorite vintages. Hamilton managed to direct public attention towards: LeBron James’ newest venture with Rimowa.

Hamilton posted a story on Instagram showcasing three Rimowa bags, two of them black and one silver. These are no ordinary bags; they’re part of Rimowa’s ultra-luxe line designed in collaboration with LeBron James. The bags, specifically the $9,900 wine case, are the epitome of opulence and craftsmanship. Hamilton captioned the post “OMW 🇮🇹,” referencing the Italian GP. This seemingly casual post effectively gives James and Rimowa’s luxury line free publicity. What’s noteworthy is that Hamilton isn’t an ambassador for Rimowa, making this a $0 promotion on his part.

Read more: Minutes After Making $127,000,000 Announcement, Lewis Hamilton & Co. Echoes Simone Biles’ 3 Word Mantra to Embrace New Beginnings

This seemingly innocuous act of flaunting a luggage piece turns into a silent yet effective endorsement, one that leverages the star power of both Hamilton and James. Either way, Hamilton’s social media savvy has again proven that he knows how to keep himself at the intersection of sport, luxury, and culture—even if he isn’t getting paid for it.

Lewis Hamilton finds inspiration in Lebron James

Both Hamilton and James are in fields that can be particularly unforgiving as one ages. There’s frequent talk about Hamilton’s retirement, especially as he’s 38 and facing stiff competition from younger racers like Max Verstappen. Similarly, James, at 38, often faces questions about his staying power in the fast-paced world of the NBA.

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“I don’t plan on stopping any time soon,” Hamilton recently stated in an ESPN interview. “I’m in my prime.” He pointed to other sports legends like LeBron James and Tom Brady as examples of sustained excellence over time, saying, “If you look at LeBron [James], if you look at Tom Brady, they have shown that it can be sustained for as long as you are dedicated enough to put the energy and time in. I’m massively driven.”

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Don’t you think Hamilton’s drive extends far beyond the racetrack and it’s also about a lifestyle that knows no boundaries?

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