As the Formula 1 drivers arrive in Austin for an exhilarating Sprint weekend at the Circuit of The Americas, the air is buzzing with excitement. Following the intense heat of the Singapore Grand Prix, the grid took time to recuperate and recharge before plunging into the final stretch of the season.
Some drivers embraced the allure of tourism, while others opted to dive straight into simulated racing or even nostalgic video games like Mario Kart. The break allowed for heartfelt tributes, additional track time, and plenty of adventurous escapades, all contributing to the drivers’ reset ahead of the final seven weeks of racing.
Several drivers took advantage of their downtime in Asia. Mercedes teammates Kimi Antonelli and George Russell ventured to Malaysia, where they traded in their racing helmets for hard hats during a visit to the Petronas headquarters. Meanwhile, Lance Stroll made his way to India, where he met with the dedicated team at Cognizant HQ, a partner for Aston Martin.
In the midst of this busy schedule, the motorsports community came together in support of Lewis Hamilton, who is mourning the loss of his cherished companion, Roscoe. Hamilton received a deeply meaningful gift during the break—a LEGO portrait of Roscoe, a fitting tribute to a beloved friend and supportive presence throughout his racing career.
The week off from F1 doesn’t equate to a hiatus from racing. Veteran driver Fernando Alonso embraced his passion by spending time karting, connecting with one of the foundational aspects of his racing journey. Karting is a common pastime among F1 drivers, providing the perfect environment for them to hone their skills and enjoy the sport outside the pressure-filled atmosphere of the F1 paddock.
This trend of engaging in racing during breaks is prevalent across the grid. Many drivers delve into various forms of competitive racing, whether through sim sessions, GT competitions, or casual karting with friends. This allows them to maintain sharpness and continue chasing that racing thrill they all crave.
Pierre Gasly exemplified this blend of work and play during his week off. He dedicated time to physical training and logged laps on the sim to stay in top form ahead of the Austin race. When it came to relaxation, his competitive spirit remained intact as he enjoyed gaming sessions filled with F1 25, rounds of Wii Sports golf, and spirited matches of Mario Kart—eagerly seeking any extra advantage he could obtain.
Meanwhile, Liam Lawson and Nico Hulkenberg offered fans a glimpse into their off-track lives with a series of enjoyable posts. Their social media updates showcased an array of experiences—from travel snapshots to training routines, light-hearted adventures, and playful moments, revealing a slice of life beyond the rigorous demands of the racetrack.
image source from：formula1
