In the high-voltage adrenaline-driven world of F1, the superstars are the drivers. The popularity of F1 has risen swiftly over the years and last year the footfall had risen to 6.1 million fans for all 22 F1 races, compared to 5.7 million the year prior! Such is the popularity of drivers such as Lewis Hamilton who was seen earlier this year sporting the cover spot in the GQ Global Creativity Awards. 

From the relentless buzz of paparazzi to the thunderous roars of fans at the circuits, F1 drivers have evolved into global icons. NASCAR insider Conor Daly shares his thoughts on the unparalleled celebrity status these drivers have achieved and how it’s reshaping the landscape of modern motorsport.

The unstoppable rise in the popularity of F1 drivers

While one might think that Netflix is the sole reason behind Formula 1’s soaring popularity, that assumption only scratches the surface. Netflix has undeniably added a compelling edge with “Drive to Survive” offering a deeper insight into the lives of drivers and the dynamics of the sport, leaving fans yearning to know more. However, Formula 1’s fandom is on a steady rise due to multiple factors, with the drivers themselves emerging as larger-than-life figures, rivaling the sport’s appeal.

The most popular driver in the current era is arguably none other than Lewis Hamilton. With 105 race wins under his belt, Hamilton’s fandom is nothing short of extraordinary. His immense popularity is partly rooted in his Afro-Grenadian background, which resonates with a diverse global audience. Beyond his track record, Hamilton’s association with iconic brands like Puma, Tommy Hilfiger, and Police further amplifies his celebrity status. It’s his unparalleled public appeal that connects deeply with fans, elevating him to the status of a timeless icon.

The drivers’ magnetic personalities and global appeal have propelled them into a stratosphere of fame that even Hollywood stars might envy. As NASCAR insider Conor Daly noted, “One of the craziest things I think I’ve ever seen. The celebritydom— I have never seen people be as famous as Formula One drivers. You see actors come to the Indy 500, and some pretty famous people over the years. You see different events, and there’s crazy paparazzi for actors outside of a club or restaurant or something like that, but it was fascinating to see the reaction to the drivers at the track.”

Another name witnessing a phenomenal rise in popularity is Ferrari’s star driver, Carlos Sainz Jr. As the successor to the legendary Carlos Sainz Sr., much of his appeal stems from the legacy he carries. Sainz Jr. has secured victory in four Formula 1 Grand Prix across the 10 seasons he has participated in so far. His charm and approachability resonate deeply with fans, as highlighted by NASCAR insider Conor Daly, “Saw Carlos do a hotel appearance at like a little club, but to get for them to get away from the scene and we could all just hang at the golf course like no one’s there—like private—that was a great time.”

The host of Speed Street, Chase Holden, asked Daly, “So they’re like Backstreet Boys, Britney Spears height fame at this point you would say?”

“For sure I would say that,” responded Daly. Daly and Holden centered this claim around the fact that these drivers are on the world stage, traveling to different countries for each race and gaining global fame, and what has helped them reach more eyes than ever before is the Netflix series ‘Drive to Survive’. The 90s saw global recognition for Backstreet Boys and Britney Spears that had defined ultimate fandom, with screaming fans and sold-out arenas becoming the hallmark of their era, much like the adoration now seen for Formula One’s elite. 

When discussing Formula 1’s rising popularity and its star drivers, one cannot overlook Max Verstappen. He is the son of former F1 driver Jos Verstappen. The 4-time champion has established himself as a force to be reckoned with, achieving 15 wins in 2022 and an astonishing 19 wins in 2023. Verstappen’s relentless pursuit of excellence continued as he clinched his 9th victory of the season at Qatar last week after securing the championship in Las Vegas prior. With his eyes set on Abu Dhabi, Verstappen will look to equal his rival’s win record on that circuit by claiming his 5th career win there.

Hamilton vows to give Mercedes his best farewell after disappointing Qatar race

Lewis Hamilton is not in the best shape and is getting more frustrated with every passing race. This is not exactly how the fans envision the Formula One hero. The Lusail International Circuit saw him ending out of the Top 10 circuit, and this was indeed disappointing. He was accorded a time penalty after he made a false start and ended up suffering a front left puncture. He finished in the 12th position, outside of the top 10 grid for the first time this season. 

Given that he will be transitioning to Ferrari in 2025, the upcoming Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will be his last run with Mercedes. The glorious history of Mercedes-Hamilton camaraderie is indeed worth cherishing. A relationship that started more than a decade ago in 2013 deserves the perfect goodbye and nobody other than Hamilton is better capable of delivering the same. Reflecting on the same, Hamilton said, “I’m still standing, it’s not how you fall, it’s how you get back up, so I’ll get back up tomorrow and give it another shot next week. I think what’s important is that we turn up and give it our best shot”. Despite a shaky relationship with Mercedes off-late, Hamilton would look to close out his tenure with the team he won seven world championships with in style, at a venue he already has 5 victories at.

As Hamilton prepares for his final race with Mercedes in Abu Dhabi, fans worldwide will eagerly watch, hoping for one last glimpse of his brilliance in the silver car. After all, legends have a way of crafting unforgettable farewells, and Hamilton’s might just be the perfect crescendo to a storied partnership.