In a surprising revelation, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris, also the Democratic presidential nominee, recently shared that she is an avid fan of Formula 1 and supports seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton. During a recent chat with H.Stern on SiriusXM, on October 8th, Harris spoke about her family’s love for F1 and how her busy campaign schedule has made it challenging to keep up with the races this year.
Kamala Harris’s Unexpected Love for Formula 1
While many may not associate Kamala Harris with motorsport, her recent comments highlight a lesser-known side of her personality. During the interview, Howard Stern asked Harris about her interest in Formula 1, and she candidly explained that her “whole family” enjoys watching the sport. Despite her busy schedule on the campaign trail, Harris admitted that she has struggled to watch races this year due to early start times and other commitments. She also mentioned the irregular race times, which many American F1 fans find challenging given the global nature of the sport.
Harris’s admiration for Lewis Hamilton came up when Stern admitted that he “[doesn’t] even know who that is.“ Harris quickly filled him in, describing Hamilton as a prominent figure in Formula 1 and noting that the British driver would soon be leaving Mercedes. Before moving on to other topics, Harris encouraged Stern to give Formula 1 a try, showcasing her genuine passion for the sport.
Why Lewis Hamilton Resonates With Kamala Harris
Lewis Hamilton is not just a dominant force on the race track; he has also become a global ambassador for diversity, environmental sustainability, and social justice. These causes align closely with Kamala Harris’s values, making it no surprise that he is her favorite F1 driver. Hamilton, the first and only Black driver in the sport’s history, has used his platform to speak out on issues of racial inequality, pushing Formula 1 to embrace more inclusive practices.
In recent years, Hamilton has spearheaded campaigns to address the lack of diversity in motorsport, including launching the Hamilton Commission to study the barriers facing Black students in STEM fields related to motorsports. His activism extends to environmental causes as well, as Hamilton advocates for greener technologies both on and off the track. Given Harris’s track record of supporting social justice initiatives, it makes sense that she would root for a figure like Hamilton, who embodies both excellence in sport and a commitment to making the world a better place.
Formula 1’s Popularity in the United States
Kamala Harris joins a growing list of celebrities and high-profile figures who have recently developed a passion for Formula 1. This includes actors, athletes, and musicians who have all been drawn to the sport, thanks in part to its growing presence in the U.S.. The launch of Netflix’s Drive to Survive docuseries has been credited with drawing a whole new audience to the sport, offering behind-the-scenes drama and humanizing drivers like Lewis Hamilton, Max Verstappen, and Daniel Ricciardo. The series has not only increased F1’s viewership but has also helped transform it from a niche sport into a mainstream cultural phenomenon in the U.S.
Additionally, the rise of new races in America, such as the Miami Grand Prix and the upcoming Las Vegas Grand Prix, has further fueled interest in the sport. These U.S.-based events have attracted celebrities, athletes, and influencers, adding to the glamour and appeal of Formula 1. With Formula 1’s presence continuing to expand in the United States, it’s no wonder that figures like Kamala Harris have joined the ranks of passionate F1 fans.
Donald Trump’s Relationship With Motorsports
While Kamala Harris has spoken openly about her love for Formula 1, her rival, Donald Trump, has his ties to the world of motorsports. Earlier this year, Trump attended the Miami Grand Prix, adding to his history of supporting high-profile racing events. Trump has long been associated with NASCAR, having attended several races throughout his political career. In 2020, Trump even participated in the Daytona 500, where he made a dramatic appearance by riding in The Beast, his presidential limousine, on the track.
Trump’s connection to NASCAR reflects his appeal to a different segment of the American population compared to Formula 1. NASCAR has historically been more popular with blue-collar voters in the Southern U.S., a demographic that makes up a significant portion of Trump’s political base. In contrast, F1’s global appeal and more recent surge in popularity in the U.S. have brought in a more diverse and younger fanbase, making Harris’s support of the sport align with her broader appeal to more progressive voters.
Joe Biden’s Legacy as a “Car Guy”
While Kamala Harris and Donald Trump each have connections to motorsport, Joe Biden stands out as a self-proclaimed “car guy.“ Biden’s love for cars, notably his 1967 C2 Corvette, is well-known. He has even participated in automotive events while in office, including a memorable Car and Driver interview in which he shared stories about driving his Corvette at speeds of up to 132 mph under the watchful eye of the Secret Service.
Biden’s passion for the automotive world goes beyond personal enjoyment. His support for green technologies and American auto manufacturing has solidified his image as a leader committed to innovation and sustainability. With the 2024 election approaching nearer, it remains to be seen whether Harris or Trump will continue to engage with the motorsport world similarly.
The Broader Shift in Motorsport Culture
The growing involvement of public figures like Kamala Harris and Donald Trump in motorsport reflects a broader cultural shift. Racing, whether in the form of Formula 1 or NASCAR, has increasingly become part of mainstream pop culture. The fanbases for these sports are becoming more diverse, and their appeal extends beyond traditional audiences. With celebrities, athletes, and influencers flocking to major racing events, motorsport is carving out a larger space in American culture.
Conclusion: Harris, Trump, and the Intersection of Racing and Politics
In the end, Kamala Harris’s passion for Formula 1 and Lewis Hamilton adds a personal touch to her public image as she campaigns for the presidency. Her connection to the sport showcases the growing intersection of motorsport and popular culture in the U.S., just as Donald Trump’s ties to NASCAR speak to his appeal to more traditional racing fans. Whether through F1 or NASCAR, motorsport plays a unique role in the broader cultural landscape as we approach the 2024 election.
FAQs
Does Kamala Harris follow Formula 1?
Yes, Kamala Harris is a fan of Formula 1 and supports Lewis Hamilton.
Why does Harris root for Lewis Hamilton?
Harris admires Hamilton for his racing excellence and advocacy for social justice and diversity.
How has Formula 1 grown in the U.S.?
F1 has surged in popularity in the U.S. thanks to events like the Miami Grand Prix and Netflix’s Drive to Survive series.
What is Donald Trump’s connection to motorsports?
Trump has attended numerous NASCAR events, including the Daytona 500, and recently participated at the Miami Grand Prix.
Will motorsport play a role in the 2024 election?
While unlikely to be a significant issue, Harris’s and Trump’s ties to motorsport reflect their different connections to American culture.