After Break Up With Long Time GF Scherzinger, Lewis Hamilton Let His Guard Down for Rihanna at 2015 VMAs

“Shine bright like a diamond,” croons Rihanna. The sizzling beats that Rihanna brought to the table, the soul-touching chorus by Nicole Scherzinger, or the infectious rhythms from Shakira that made the world dance? In the realm of music, they are legends, and in our story, they serve as muses. But why are we reminiscing about these icons today? Because they are all connected to our F1 star. Yes, of course, it is Lewis Hamilton. The latest buzz is that he’s rumored to be dating Shakira, the multi-award-winning singer who, by the way, just bagged 5 VMAs — cue applause! including the Video Vanguard Award. This comes on the heels of Taylor Swift’s win for Video of the Year for “Anti-Hero“. But let’s hit the brakes and rewind a bit.

It wasn’t long ago when Lewis, fresh off rumors about dating 2007, Miss World Vivian Burkhardt, was seen arm-in-arm with Nicole Scherzinger at the Monaco GP. A whirlwind of camera flashes followed, and soon enough, everyone was talking about them. Lewis was swiftly gaining traction in the F1 world, and Nicole was already atop pop culture’s Mount Olympus with The Pussycat Dolls. But as they say, the faster you burn, the quicker you fade away. After nearly eight roller-coaster years filled with red-carpet events, romantic getaways, and their fair share of turbulence, the two decided to go their separate ways in 2015. While fans speculated, insiders whispered about Lewis’s hesitance to tie the knot despite their evident chemistry. But as is often the case in the world of celebrities, when one chapter closes, speculation about the next begins. Enter Rihanna.

Then, the 2015 MTV VMAs happened. Lewis, who had always managed to maintain an air of mystery about his romantic endeavors, seemed to let his guard down, at least momentarily. Speculations had been rife ever since Lewis and Rihanna were seen together at the Met Gala after-party earlier that year. Asked about the nature of his relationship with the Barbadian singer at the VMA’s, Lewis played coy, “You know, I’ve known Ri for a long time. We’ve been friends for a while. We get to hang out every now and again.” However, insiders suggested he was truly smitten. To add a twist to the tale, Rihanna’s ex, Chris Brown, apparently felt a pang of jealousy seeing the two together.

Read more: Lewis Hamilton Vs. Max Verstappen – Who Has Been More Dominant in Their Era? F1 Champ Announces Clear-Cut Winner

The relationship rumors continued to gain traction, especially after the two were seen partying together in Barbados, with Rihanna in a stunning carnival outfit and Lewis showcasing his athletic build. However, sources remained divided on the true nature of their relationship. Hamilton’s romantic entanglements often steal the spotlight.

The many romances of Lewis Hamilton

From the runways of international fashion events to the rhythm of chart-topping beats, Hamilton’s love life has been nothing short of a rollercoaster ride. Stepping beyond the spotlight with Nicole and Rihanna, his heart has raced for several other celebrities, each leaving an indelible mark on his life’s journey. From notable names in the music industry to top models, Hamilton has had his share of A-list connections.

Many notable figures have been part of this racing champion’s romantic narrative. From a fleeting six-month fling with glamour model Danielle Lloyd, back in his teenage years, to being spotted with Rita Ora during the 2016 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Hamilton’s seemingly enigmatic love life has piqued the curiosity of many, especially when model Barbara Palvin entered the picture, followed by encounters with fashion icon Winnie Harlow, socialite Sofia Richie, and even rapper Nicki Minaj.

Watch this story: Rihanna’s relationship with F1 star Lewis Hamilton over the years

But was it just friendship or “We Found Love in a Hopeless Place“? When two icons like them get together, the world sits up and takes notice. And boy, did we notice!