Formula One (more commonly abbreviated as F1) has been the premier racing event of the year since 1950. The races offer intense thrills as drivers rocket around the course at eye-watering speeds, trying to come out on top.
These drivers are some of the best in the world and know how to push their cars to the absolute limit. Their skill is undeniable, and it is incredible for fans to watch the intense concentration required to navigate the world’s best courses at such extreme speeds.
With such a stressful and challenging job, it is no wonder these drivers like to have time to unwind by doing things they love. One common pastime shared by many is gambling.
Here are a handful of F1 drivers who love gambling and spending time on both the track and at the casino.
Lewis Hamilton
Known as one of the greatest F1 drivers of all time, Lewis Hamilton is a seven-time World Championship winner. Also famous for his lavish lifestyle, the Brit is often seen socialising with friends at the hottest clubs and movie premiers.
Another well-known fact about Hamilton is his love for gambling—which he doesn’t try to hide. He has been spotted in some of the world’s top casinos, from Monaco to New York to Sin City itself.
While he also enjoys sports betting and blackjack, his favourite pastime is playing poker. The jury is still out on whether he is as good at gambling as he is driving.
We do know that he has had at least one run-in with staff while visiting a casino in New Zealand. Because of this, rumour has it that he sometimes takes to gambling online because it is more convenient and keeps him out of excessive trouble.
Kimi Raikkonen
Despite winning the F1 World Championship only once, Kimi Raikkonen is widely regarded as one of the most recognisable names in the sport. Aside from achieving 426 podium wins in his career, he also won the title of the fastest lap on 46 separate occasions.
When not racing around a track, he is known to have a particular love for poker. In 2009, he even took place in a celebrity poker tournament. However, little is known about how much he has made (or lost) while playing.
Rumour has it that he once participated in a poker match involving almost €500,000. While he may be a professional racing driver, this is a pretty big chunk of change, no matter who you are.
With the nickname “Iceman,” Kimi is known for his stoic demeanour, which serves him well when trying to remain unreadable during poker games.
Fernando Alonso
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