#44 Lewis Hamilton, (GRB) AMG Mercedes Ineos during the Austrian GP, Spielberg 29 June-2 July 2023 at the RedBull Ring, Formula 1 World championship 2023.

Surprising Facts That You Didn’t Know About Your Favorite Drivers

In this article, we’ll uncover five surprising facts that you may not have known about some of the most iconic names in motorsports.

As a racing enthusiast, you’re probably well-versed in the on-track exploits of your favorite drivers. But did you know that these high-speed heroes have some fascinating off-track talents and quirks?

Lewis Hamilton: A Music Enthusiast

Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time Formula One World Champion, is not only a master behind the wheel but also a passionate music enthusiast. Hamilton’s love for music extends beyond just being a listener; he is an accomplished musician himself. He has a keen interest in playing multiple musical instruments, including the guitar and piano. In fact, he has been seen jamming with some of the biggest names in the music industry, showcasing his musical talent outside the racing circuit.

“Music has always been a huge part of my life,” Hamilton has said. “It’s a way for me to express myself and connect with my fans on a deeper level.”

According to The Sports Rush, Hamilton’s musical endeavors have even led him to collaborate with some of the biggest names in the industry, including pop superstar Justin Bieber. The two have been spotted in the studio together, working on tracks that blend Hamilton’s love of electronic music with Bieber’s signature sound.

Interestingly, Hamilton’s musical talents don’t stop at production and songwriting. The British driver is also an accomplished pianist, having learned the instrument from a young age. He often uses his piano skills to unwind and find inspiration between races.

Hamilton’s social media accounts often feature his musical pursuits, providing fans with a glimpse into his musical interests and activities. Its love for music is a testament to his multifaceted personality, proving that his talents go beyond the racetrack.

Kimi Räikkönen: Love For Ice Cream

Kimi Räikkönen, famously known as “The Iceman” for his cool and composed demeanor on the track, has a surprising love for a different kind of ice – ice cream! This Finnish racing star has a well-documented affection for ice cream, often expressing his fondness for this sweet treat in various interviews and social media posts.

RAIKKONEN Kimi (fin), Alfa Romeo Racing C38, portrait during the 2019 Formula One World Championship, Grand Prix of Azerbaijan from April 25 to 28 in Baku – Photo Antonin Vincent / DPPI

“I love ice cream, especially the soft-serve kind,” Räikkönen has revealed. “It’s the perfect way to cool down after a hot day at the track.”

In a surprising fact, Räikkönen’s love for the frozen treat is so well-known that it’s become a running joke among his fellow drivers and fans. During interviews, he’s often asked about his favorite ice cream flavors, and he’s never shy about sharing his preferences.

Räikkönen’s love for ice cream has been a part of various brand endorsements and marketing campaigns, showcasing his genuine fondness for this frozen dessert. But Räikkönen’s ice cream obsession isn’t just a personal indulgence – it’s also a strategic part of his race-day routine. The former Formula One world champion has been known to enjoy a quick ice cream break between practice sessions and qualifying, helping him stay refreshed and focused for the main event.

Brendan Gaughan: Surprising Fact – He’s a Casino Owner

Brendan Gaughan, a prominent figure in NASCAR, is not just a skilled driver but also a successful entrepreneur.  According to Slotswise, the former NASCAR driver is also the proud owner of a successful independent casino. His involvement in the casino industry adds a fascinating layer to his public image, showcasing his business acumen and diverse interests outside the realm of motorsport.

Brendan Gaughan

“I’ve always had a passion for the hospitality industry,” Gaughan has said. “Owning a casino allows me to combine my love of entertainment with my business acumen.”

Gaughan’s casino, the South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa, is a 2.2 million-square-foot complex that features a wide range of gaming options, from slot machines to high-stakes poker tables. The driver-turned-entrepreneur has even been known to host special racing-themed events at the casino, drawing in fans from around the world.

Gaughan’s involvement in the casino business isn’t just a hobby – it’s also a savvy financial move. The steady income from the casino has allowed him to diversify his portfolio and invest in other business ventures, including real estate and motorsports teams.

The South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa has become a prominent venue for racing and entertainment events, contributing to the local community and tourism in Las Vegas.

Fernando Alonso: An Avid Cyclist

When he’s not behind the wheel of a race car, two-time Formula One world champion Fernando Alonso can often be found on a bicycle. The Spanish driver is an avid cyclist who has even competed in some of the world’s most prestigious cycling events. Alonso has participated in cycling events, including endurance races and charity rides, demonstrating his active involvement in the cycling community.

Fernando Alonso, Aston Martin F1 Team
Fernando Alonso, Aston Martin F1 Team

“Cycling is a great way for me to stay in shape and clear my mind,” Alonso has said. “It’s a sport that I’m truly passionate about.”

Alonso’s love for cycling has led him to participate in events like the Vuelta a España, one of the three Grand Tours of professional cycling. He’s also been known to train with some of the top cyclists in the world, using their expertise to hone his own bike skills.

A surprising fact is that Alonso’s cycling pursuits go beyond just personal enjoyment. The driver has also been involved in the development of high-performance cycling equipment, working with manufacturers to create custom bikes and components that can give cyclists a competitive edge. His commitment to cycling underscores the importance of physical fitness and holistic well-being for racing stars, showcasing an often overlooked aspect of their rigorous training and lifestyle.

Sebastian Vettel: Surprising Fact – Fluent in 3 Languages

While many racing drivers are known for their linguistic prowess, few can match the multilingual abilities of four-time Formula One world champion Sebastian Vettel. The German driver is fluent in not one, not two, but three languages – and he’s even working on adding a fourth to his repertoire.

Porsche 963, Porsche Penske Motorsport (#5), Sebastian Vettel (D)
Porsche 963, Porsche Penske Motorsport (#5), Sebastian Vettel (D)

“Being able to communicate effectively in multiple languages is a huge asset, both in racing and in life,” Vettel has said. “It allows me to connect with people from all over the world and better understand their perspectives.”

In addition to his native German, Vettel is also fluent in English and Italian. He’s often been praised for his ability to seamlessly switch between these languages during interviews and press conferences, demonstrating a level of linguistic versatility that is rare even among the world’s top athletes.

His fluency in English, German, and Italian facilitates seamless interactions in media interviews, press conferences, and promotional events. But his linguistic prowess doesn’t stop there. The driver is currently working on learning Spanish, a language that he believes will be invaluable as he continues to compete in races around the globe.

Vettel’s linguistic skills emphasize the international nature of motorsport and the importance of effective communication in a sport that transcends cultural and linguistic boundaries.

As you can see, there’s much more to your favorite racing stars than meets the eye. From music production to ice cream obsessions, these drivers have a wealth of hidden talents and quirks that make them truly fascinating individuals.

If you’re as intrigued by these surprising facts as we are, be sure to follow your favorite drivers on social media for even more insights into their off-track lives. Who knows what other hidden talents they might have up their sleeves?