F1 Drivers' Off-Track Adventures: From Karting Chaos to Tennis Reunions in Early April 2026

As the Formula 1 season pauses after three races under the new 2026 regulations, drivers have enjoyed a rare breather before the action resumes in Miami at the end of April. Far from taking it easy, they've filled their time with intense preparation, social outings, and high-octane hobbies. From gym sessions and simulator work to unexpected reunions and festival vibes, here's a look at what the grid has been up to.

Staying Sharp with Training and Special Events

The drivers' commitment to peak performance remains unwavering. While the racing calendar is quiet, hours are poured into gym workouts and simulator sessions to fine-tune skills for the Miami return. For Alpine's Franco Colapinto, April brings excitement beyond the norm: he's announced a roadshow exhibition in Buenos Aires, where he'll pilot a 2012 E20 Formula 1 car—sporting an Alpine livery—through the streets of his hometown to thrill local fans.

Impromptu Paddock Reunion at Monte-Carlo Masters

Monaco's Monte-Carlo Masters tennis tournament proved irresistible to several drivers, turning the event into an off-track F1 gathering. Charles Leclerc, George Russell, Alex Albon, Gabriel Bortoleto, Ollie Bearman, and Oscar Piastri all attended, with Albon, Piastri, Bearman, and Bortoleto spotted together in the stands. The group enjoyed photo ops with players and VIPs alike. The highlight was Jannik Sinner's victory over Carlos Alcaraz in the final, securing his first clay-court Masters 1000 title and reclaiming the ATP top spot. As one observer noted, the drivers might have gleaned tips for their own team padel matches from the pros.

Spectating Across Sports

Beyond tennis, drivers have been avid sports fans. Lando Norris cheered from the stands at Sporting vs. Arsenal's football match, while Pierre Gasly and Esteban Ocon supported Paris Saint-Germain against Liverpool in Paris. Alex Albon crossed the Atlantic to watch the LA Dodgers, MLB's defending champions, at Dodger Stadium. The French trio—Gasly, Ocon, and Isack Hadjar—even appeared on French TV, chatting about the new season, career highlights, and ambitions.

Desert Escapes and Home Comforts

Lewis Hamilton balanced family Easter celebrations and rigorous training with a fun escape to Coachella in California's desert, catching a Justin Bieber performance front-row. At home, George Russell savored sea breezes, Charles Leclerc reunited with his dog Leo, Oscar Piastri marked his birthday with a custom chocolate helmet inspired by his 2025 Las Vegas design, and Valtteri Bottas cycled Monaco's streets, capping Easter with an egg hunt on the French Riviera.

Revving Engines Off the Grid

Adrenaline seekers haven't idled. Max Verstappen prepares for a Nürburgring Nordschleife return in his GT racing program, Lance Stroll debuted in GT3 at Paul Ricard, and Lando Norris joined Carlos Sainz for karting, testing 100 years of go-karts. Kimi Antonelli traded four wheels for two at Valentino Rossi's ranch, riding with MotoGP leader Marco Bezzecchi.

Tokyo Afterglow from Suzuka

Post-Suzuka in Japan, drivers immersed in local culture. Arvid Lindblad vlogged his Tokyo stint, including a visit to tuning house Liberty Walk, while Liam Lawson posed at Lawson Kawaguchiko Station. Lewis Hamilton added flair by drifting a Ferrari F40 through Tokyo streets, showcasing his passion for automotive thrills.

With Miami looming, these moments highlight the drivers' dynamic lives—always racing toward the next challenge, on or off the track.