Sir Lewis Hamilton remains one of the biggest names in Formula 1, but in 2026 his story extends well beyond the racetrack. The seven-time world champion is competing for Scuderia Ferrari after making one of the most significant moves of his career, while his personal life has also become a major source of international attention.
From his record-breaking achievements to his business interests and highly publicized relationship with Kim Kardashian, Hamilton continues to command attention across sport, fashion and entertainment.
Ferrari Move
Hamilton’s Ferrari chapter began in 2025 after 11 seasons with Mercedes. The move represented a major change for a driver who had spent much of his modern career associated with the German manufacturer.
His Ferrari contract is widely reported to be worth about $70 million annually in base salary, before potential bonuses and other earnings. The deal also placed Hamilton in the famous red colors of the Italian team, giving him an opportunity to pursue further success with one of motorsport’s most recognizable names.
The transition has been closely followed throughout 2026 as Hamilton adapts to a new team, new working environment and different competitive expectations.
Record Career
Hamilton’s legacy was already secure before his Ferrari move.
He has won seven Formula 1 World Drivers’ Championships, matching Michael Schumacher’s long-standing record. His career record book is even more extensive, with Hamilton holding the all-time marks for Grand Prix victories, pole positions and podium finishes.
He has competed for McLaren, Mercedes and Ferrari during his F1 career. His first world championship came with McLaren in 2008, while six more titles followed during his dominant Mercedes era.
With more than 100 Grand Prix victories and more than 100 pole positions, Hamilton has achieved statistical milestones that may remain difficult for future drivers to match.
A $100 Million Year
Hamilton’s financial success has grown alongside his sporting achievements.
According to the figures cited in the 2026 Forbes highest-paid athlete rankings, he earned approximately $100 million during the preceding 12-month period. About $70 million came from his sporting income, while roughly $30 million was attributed to activities away from the circuit.
His overall fortune has been estimated at approximately $586 million, although celebrity net-worth figures are estimates rather than independently audited personal financial statements.
His Ferrari salary is only one part of the picture. Global sponsorship agreements, investments, entertainment projects and business ventures have helped turn Hamilton into a worldwide commercial brand.
Brand Power
Hamilton has built an unusually broad endorsement portfolio for a racing driver.
His commercial associations have included luxury, fashion, technology and lifestyle companies such as Dior, Tommy Hilfiger, IWC Schaffhausen, Lululemon and Perplexity AI.
His influence also extends into fashion. Hamilton regularly attracts attention for his clothing choices during race weekends and major international events, establishing himself as a recognizable figure beyond traditional motorsport audiences.
That crossover appeal has helped make him attractive to companies seeking access to audiences outside Formula 1.
Business Ventures
The driver’s interests extend well beyond sponsorships.
Hamilton has invested in entertainment through Dawn Apollo Films, his film and television production company. He has also been involved with Neat Burger, a plant-based food business, reflecting his long-standing interest in veganism and alternative food options.
He is also part of the ownership group connected to the Denver Broncos of the NFL.
These ventures give Hamilton additional commercial interests outside racing and allow him to develop projects that can continue generating value beyond his driving career.
Kim Kardashian Romance
Hamilton’s personal life became another major international talking point in 2026.
He and Kim Kardashian had known each other for years before romance rumors intensified. Speculation surrounding their relationship grew after they were reportedly seen together around the beginning of 2026.
By June, the pair had effectively made their relationship public through social media, ending months of speculation.
Their connection attracted enormous interest because Hamilton comes from the world of elite motorsport while Kardashian is one of the world’s most recognizable entertainment and business personalities.
Blending Families
The relationship appeared to take another step during the 2026 Formula 1 summer break.
Hamilton joined Kardashian and her four children, North, Saint, Chicago and Psalm, during a family vacation in Hawaii. Reports also indicated that members of Hamilton’s family were present, suggesting that the relationship has developed beyond a casual celebrity romance.
The pair had previously been photographed together at major events, including Formula 1 weekends, further connecting their professional and personal worlds.
Beyond Racing
Hamilton’s influence is not limited to championships and commercial deals.
He has used his platform to advocate for greater diversity and inclusion in motorsport. Through Mission 44, the foundation he established, he has supported initiatives designed to improve opportunities for young people from underrepresented backgrounds.
He has also been outspoken about environmental issues and maintains a plant-based lifestyle.
His work away from the circuit has become an important part of his public identity, particularly as he approaches the later stages of a career that has already lasted more than a decade at the highest level.
Knighted Champion
Hamilton was knighted in 2021, becoming Sir Lewis Hamilton. The honor recognized his achievements in motorsport and wider contributions to British life.
Today, his profile is unusually broad. He is simultaneously a Ferrari driver, seven-time world champion, businessman, fashion figure, investor and philanthropist.
