Just In FIA: Ferrari Confirms Lewis Hamilton Can’t …read more.
Seven-time Formula 1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton has revealed that the sport’s stringent rules and intense race-day schedule often leave him with no opportunity to eat during key moments, particularly around qualifying and race time. The Mercedes-turned-Ferrari driver opened up about the physical demands of F1, highlighting a little-known aspect of the sport that affects drivers behind the scenes.
Formula 1 is widely recognized for its physical and mental intensity, but what many fans don’t see is how drivers must carefully manage their nutrition and hydration to maintain peak performance. Hamilton, known for his disciplined lifestyle, shared that he sometimes goes long periods without food due to the tight schedules and strict routines required by the sport.
“You can’t really eat before qualifying or the race,” Hamilton said. “There’s a lot of adrenaline and pressure. Eating can actually make you feel sick when you’re strapped into the car for hours.”
The issue is compounded by weight restrictions and physical strain. F1 cars are built to be as light as possible, and drivers are required to meet strict weight limits, meaning every meal and drink must be calculated. Even a small fluctuation in weight can affect performance and car balance.
Hamilton, who maintains a plant-based diet, explained that he typically eats light meals hours before race activities and often doesn’t get to refuel properly until after the event ends.
Fans were surprised to learn about this behind-the-scenes struggle, but it further underlines the dedication and discipline F1 drivers endure to compete at the highest level. As Hamilton continues his first season with Ferrari, his comments shed light on the hidden sacrifices required to stay on top in the world’s most elite motorsport.