Beyond the Grid:F1 Drivers and Their Million-Euro Toys
The summer break in the Formula 1 championship is coming to an end next week, teams will reconvene in the paddock at the Zandvoort circuit, where the 15th round of the season is set to take place. While fans eagerly await the return of racing, the drivers are spending the final days of their holidays and one of the most active on social media during this time has been Max Verstappen, one of the championship’s leading figures.
The four-time world champion clearly isn't in a hurry to return to work:he continues to enjoy his time by the sea. Recently, he was spotted on the island of Sardinia. This year, Verstappen became the owner of a luxurious yacht named Unleash the Lion. The 35-meter, custom-built vessel is estimated to be worth over €35 million. According to Marca,the yacht is so impressive that "a James Bond villain could easily be hiding on board during a race weekend." The vessel is equipped to host up to 12 guests in complete comfort and is staffed by a crew of five. During the Monaco Grand Prix, the yacht was moored in the principality’s harbor, although Verstappen himself had previously chosen not to draw attention to the acquisition.
Other drivers have also entered the world of yacht ownership.George Russell, the Mercedes driver, purchased an Italian-built Pershing 6 yacht, valued at approximately €3 million. Although more compact, it is fully equipped: it features four passenger cabins, a spacious upper deck, and a modern galley.In August, Russell was seen vacationing on board with his partner,Carmen Mundt, and a group of friends.
As is typical for him, Fernando Alonso took a unique approach:he acquired an 18-meter Sunreef Power Eco catamaran, powered by electric motors and solar panels. According to Alonso, the decision was driven by environmental concerns. “The most important things on board are peace, quiet, fresh air, and good company,” said the two-time world champion.
Lewis Hamilton is a seasoned yacht owner. Back in 2009, he purchased a 28-meter Sunseeker 90, a fast and luxurious vessel featuring American walnut interiors. Many celebrities have reportedly been guests on board.The yacht is most frequently seen moored in Monaco, although Hamilton also rents other high-end yachts as needed.
His Ferrari teammate, Charles Leclerc, owns two yachts. The first, named Sedici (Italian for "sixteen" his racing number),is an elegant Riva 66 Ribelle, valued at no less than $6 million. The second yacht, Monza, was named in honor of his victory at the 2019 Italian Grand Prix. Both yachts were built by the renowned Italian shipyard Riva and belong to the sport cruiser class.
Carlos Sainz opted for a more modest vessel, but one that still brings enjoyment. Recently, he shared a video in which he dives to a depth of 11 meters to retrieve a metal ladder that a friend had accidentally dropped overboard. Sainz completed the task successfully, demonstrating agility and strong physical form.
