Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton is all set to unwrap some Christmas presents as part of the celebration this holiday season. As the racing community recovers from a tiring season, Hamilton, despite not taking part in Formula 1’s Christmas celebration, is spreading the love with his own little “Secret Santa” tradition that he follows with his family. And the champion is reminding everyone that, in the spirit of Christmas, it’s the thought behind the presents that truly counts.

As the dust settles on a second consecutive year without a win, the Mercedes driver is spending the winter break with his family, engaging in fun activities that he doesn’t get to do when the season is in full swing. Celebrating Christmas with his family and loved ones is one of the things he enjoys the most.

Lewis Hamilton spreads the message of his family’s “Secret Santa” tradition

In an interview with the Sunday Times Magazine in 2020, Lewis Hamilton emphasized the value of spending time with loved ones over material possessions. “What is really valuable and you can’t get back is [the] time with those you love.” Now, he has shared another glimpse into his family’s unique Christmas tradition, where people are more busy having fun than opening the gifts.

In a recent Instagram update from Mercedes, the Brit shared the tradition that they follow during Christmas. And it’s a little game called Secret Santa. “And so, I do this whole thing now where we just do Secret Santa and we have like 50 dollars to spend and we have half an hour to rush around the store and find five gifts. Once everyone’s spread out with all the gifts, when you run out, there’s a double or nothing round, where if you roll a double, you can steal people’s presents,” Hamilton shared. This festive tradition not only highlights his commitment to family but also his belief that the essence of Christmas lies in the joy of giving and receiving thoughtful presents (and sometimes even stealing them!).

But as the Formula 1 community revels in Hamilton’s festive spirit, there’s a noticeable void in the paddock. This year, the F1 Secret Santa celebration misses the presence of the former champion again. Hamilton, who has faced scrutiny on social media for opting out of the tradition since 2017, once again abstained from the gift exchange.

Another year of Formula 1’s “Secret Santa” festivities without Hamilton

In the paddock, where rivalries are set aside for a moment of festive camaraderie, drivers eagerly participate in the annual “Secret Santa” tradition, Formula 1 style. The tradition involves carefully selecting presents for their peers, creating an atmosphere of goodwill and joy. As the latest yuletide festivities unfolded, drivers showcased their creativity with a delightful array of gifts, including a tripod, swimming trunks, and a unique calendar featuring Valtteri Bottas.

The unwrapping of gifts brought joy and laughter to the paddock, with drivers attempting to guess the identity of their Secret Santa. Some were quick to unravel the mystery, identifying their gift-giver instantly while others struggled. The exchange added a special charm to the holiday tradition, showcasing the personal touch each driver brings to the celebration.

As the excitement peaked in the Formula 1 paddock, one couldn’t help but wonder about the absence of Lewis Hamilton. While the champion is spreading festive cheer through his family’s “Secret Santa” tradition, his decision to sit out of the paddock celebration has sparked curiosity. The champion, known for his unique perspectives on and off the track, has chosen to keep his own Secret Santa traditions alive within the family circle.

How are your preparations for Christmas going along? And what do you think of Lewis Hamilton’s absence from the celebrations in the paddock? Share your thoughts and insights as we get closer to finishing off another great year in Formula 1.