08 November 2023 , 13:10
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Lewis Hamilton has gone tee-total as he continues his relentless quest to get back on track at Mercedes.
The seven-time world champion now hasn't tasted an F1 win since December 2021 in Saudi Arabia, with the Silver Arrows having since struggled badly for pace in the sport's new era of regulations. However, the 38-year-old has still negotiated a two-year extension to his contract with the team, initially set to expire at the end of 2023.
Hamilton is seemingly motivated by the prospect of a record-breaking eighth world title, having been denied so controversially in 2021. His business interests away from the track remain extensive though, with the British icon launching a non-alcoholic tequila brand Almave.
And that drink seemingly reflects a new personal vow, with Hamilton admitting to Vogue that previous experiences have left him doubting if he'll ever consume alcohol again: "I’ll suffer for several days—sometimes it’ll be like three or four days," he admitted.
"I’ve always been looking for how do you get that extra one per cent? As an athlete, that’s what you are always doing. I don't know if I’m going to drink again. Since I’ve stopped drinking, I’ve just been feeling so much better, so much more clarity. I sleep better, I wake up in the morning and I can still get up at 5 a.m."
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Visually at least, alcohol has always played a prominent role in F1, with champagne handed to the three podium finishers. However, more often than not the bottle contents end up sprayed over the drivers, as opposed to being consumed.
Lewis Hamilton is no longer drinking champagne on the F1 podiums (Scott Barbour/AP/REX/Shutterstock)HAVE YOUR SAY! Should top athletes be tee-total? Comment below.
Hamilton himself has previously admitted to enjoying a tequila - the alcoholic version - when celebrating a world title win. But not he wants to keep experiencing the taste of his favourite tipple without suffering the usual after effects.
"I’ve always loved a good tequila, but on days or nights when I needed a clear mind, either the night before a race or while hanging with friends, I could not find an authentic non-alcoholic option," he added. "And so began a relentless pursuit to create a non-alcoholic spirit that does not compromise on authenticity or quality."
Last year, Max Verstappen called for alcohol consumption at F1 events to be regulated for fans, following allegations of abuse which tainted the Austrian Grand Prix. Reports of sexual harassment and homophobic and racist abuse emerged on social media from people who attended the Red Bull Ring in Spielberg.