As Formula 1 gears up for the Miami Grand Prix, drivers have been making the most of their break with activities ranging from show runs to intense gym sessions. Fans can look forward to seeing their favorite drivers return to the track ready and refreshed.
With the Miami Grand Prix on the horizon, F1 drivers have been busy off the track, using the April break to recharge and indulge in some interesting side activities. From iconic show runs to intense gym workouts, they've done it all.
Franco Colapinto made quite a splash in Buenos Aires on April 26. The Alpine driver turned the city into a racetrack for a day as 600,000 fans gathered to watch his performance. He thrilled the crowd with burnouts and donuts before taking the wheel of Juan Manuel Fangio's classic Mercedes W196. Colapinto described it as one of the best days of his life, and who could argue?
Max Verstappen couldn't resist the call of the Nurburgring, participating in a 24-hour GT qualifying event. Meanwhile, McLaren and Mercedes drivers also took to the famous circuit to test Pirelli's 2027 tyres in older F1 cars. Fernando Alonso, not to be left out, has been preparing for the World Endurance Championship by testing the Adrian Newey-designed Aston Martin Valkyrie.
Maintaining fitness is crucial, even during breaks. Carlos Sainz swapped his F1 car for a bicycle, clocking up miles across Europe. Valtteri Bottas took it further by participating in California's Sea Otter Classic, a 60-mile gravel race, finishing third. Clearly, Bottas isn’t just handy with a steering wheel.
Ahead of the Miami race, several drivers have been enjoying the Californian sun. Bottas embraced the cowboy lifestyle at Coachella, catching up with ex-Red Bull driver Daniel Ricciardo. Meanwhile, Alex Albon opted for a more relaxed stay in Los Angeles, enjoying a Dodgers game and some golf.
George Russell took a nostalgic trip to Italy's South Garda Karting track, reconnecting with his roots and offering advice to young go-kart enthusiasts. Kimi Antonelli, on the other hand, was at Imola, waving the flag at the World Endurance Championship season opener.
Lewis Hamilton shared a glimpse of his intense ab workouts on social media, while Liam Lawson balanced gym sessions with a touch of indulgence. Arvid Lindblad, meanwhile, has been sharpening his skills in the simulator, preparing mentally for the races ahead.
In London, Haas drivers Ollie Bearman and Esteban Ocon met fans on Carnaby Street. Elsewhere, Sebastian Vettel ran the London Marathon in under three hours, raising funds for charity and showing he's still got plenty of speed.
April's break allowed drivers to unwind and reflect. Lawson enjoyed golf and motocross, while Pierre Gasly caught football matches in Paris and Milan. Meanwhile, championship leader Kimi Antonelli savored the early season successes, and Racing Bulls' rookie Arvid Lindblad reflected on his debut months in F1.
Gabriel Bortoleto sums it up well: the drivers have cherished their downtime, but they're itching to get back on track.