Summary Many Formula One drivers have owned private jets, including Lewis Hamilton, who had a cherry-red Bombardier Challenger 605. Max Verstappen owns a Dassault Falcon 900EX previously owned by Richard Branson. Jimmie Johnson, who is one of the wealthiest NASCAR drivers, owns a Gulfstream G150.
Most major sports have very tight schedules, requiring athletes to always be on the move. The situation is no different for motorsports like Formula 1, MotoGP, and NASCAR, with races taking place in different countries every few weeks. Drivers and teams must constantly fly from one continent to another throughout the season.
So, after accumulating millions of dollars in career earnings, many spend considerable amounts acquiring private jets for more convenience, flexibility, and comfort when traveling on those busy schedules. Let's look at the various racing drivers who have owned private jets. In most major sports, athletes face packed schedules that keep them constantly on the go.
This is especially true in motorsports like Formula 1, and NASCAR , where races are held in different countries every few weeks. As a result, drivers and their teams frequently hop from one continent to another throughout the season. With hefty earnings over their careers, many drivers invest in private jets for the added convenience, flexibility, and comfort these offer.
Let's explore which racing stars have taken to the skies in their own planes. Formula One Formula One is by far the most well-known motorsport, attracting millions of spectators annually. The FIA Formula One World Championship has been one of the top forms of racing worldwide for over seven decades.
Aviation and F1 cross paths on numerous occasions, and this year, several airlines celebrated the sport in style . Formula One , often considered the pinnacle of motorsport, has captured the hearts of millions of fans around the world. Its origins trace back to the late 1940s when the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) established a unified set of rules for Grand Prix racing, culminating in the first official World Championship race held at Silverstone in 1950.
Since then, the sport has grown exponentially, becoming a showcase of speed, technology, and driver skills. The connection between aviation and Formula One is particularly fascinating. Both fields represent the cutting edge of speed and innovation, and their intersection often leads to unique collaborations.
For example, many airlines have celebrated the sport by branding their aircraft with F1 liveries or offering special services for fans traveling to races. This relationship adds an extra layer of excitement and glamour, blending the thrill of high-speed racing with the allure of aviation. The shared emphasis on precision, performance, and innovation makes this synergy a natural fit, enhancing the overall spectacle of Formula One.
Lewis Hamilton F1 has several drivers who currently own private jets and others who have had them in the past to get them around the world more conveniently. Below is seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton's Bombardier Challenger 605, which he frequently used between races before selling it. Hamilton purchased it for around $29 million.
It could accommodate up to 19 passengers. It had registration G-LCDH, the British racer's initials - Lewis Carl Davidson Hamilton. He reportedly let go of the cherry red-liveried business jet to improve his carbon footprint .
While Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time Formula 1 World Champion, sold his Bombardier Challenger 605, the aircraft played a significant role in his illustrious career. The Challenger 605 , known for its spacious cabin and luxurious amenities, was a fitting choice for a driver of Hamilton's stature. Hamilton purchased it for around $29 million.
It could accommodate up to 19 passengers. It had registration G-LCDH, the British racer's initials - Lewis Carl Davidson Hamilton. He reportedly let go of the cherry red-liveried business jet to improve his carbon footprint .
During his ownership of the jet, it provided him with the privacy and comfort needed to manage a hectic schedule filled with races, fashion events, and other personal endeavors. The jet was an essential asset for maintaining his global presence. Lewis Hamilton sold his Bombardier Challenger 605 in 2019.
Hamilton's private jet also reflected his affinity for luxury and style, traits that are evident in his lifestyle choices. The aircraft's advanced features and elegant interior design matched Hamilton's taste for high-end experiences. Even though he no longer owns the jet, it remains a testament to his successful career and the lifestyle that accompanies being one of the most famous athletes in the world.
Keen to know more about the Bombardier Challenger 605, here's a list of quick facts about the aircraft: The Challenger 605 offers a roomy cabin with a typical configuration accommodating up to 12 passengers. The interior is often customizable with luxurious finishes, including leather seating and modern amenities. It is equipped with the Bombardier Vision flight deck, featuring cutting-edge avionics and cockpit technology that enhances safety and simplifies operations for pilots.
The Challenger 605 has a range of approximately 4,000 nautical miles (7,408 kilometers), allowing for non-stop flights on many long-haul routes. It can cruise at speeds of up to Mach 0.82.
The aircraft has an impressive baggage compartment, which is accessible even when the plane is in flight. This feature adds to its practicality for longer trips and extended stays. Known for its quiet cabin environment, the Challenger 605 incorporates noise-reduction technology and efficient climate control, ensuring a comfortable experience for passengers.
Max Verstappen It is no secret that the 2023 Formula One season was dominated by Max Verstappen and the Red Bull team. The reigning world champion purchased his private jet about three years ago for $15 million. It is a 15-year-old Dassault Falcon-900EX , previously owned by Richard Branson.
The Falcon 900EX has a striking matte dark gray and orange livery with the Verstappen logo on the tail. It has registration PH-DTF and can be spotted in various locations as the driver uses it for personal and professional trips. Max Verstappen , the reigning Formula 1 champion, is the proud owner of a Dassault Falcon 900EX .
This luxurious aircraft suits his fast-paced lifestyle, offering a spacious and comfortable environment for long journeys between races. The 15-year-old aircraft was previously owned by Richard Branson. Sometimes nicknamed 'the flying Dutchman,' Verstappen certainly takes to the skies in style! The Falcon 900EX, known for its impressive range and speed, complements Verstappen's on-track prowess.
It's not just a means of transport, but a symbol of his success and status in the racing world. Verstappen's private jet allows him to maintain a demanding travel schedule while enjoying the perks of privacy and convenience. The jet's sophisticated interior and advanced technology provide a relaxing space where he can unwind or prepare for upcoming races.
For Verstappen, the Falcon 900EX is an essential tool for balancing the rigorous demands of a global racing career with moments of tranquility. Fernando Alonso Fernando Alonso is the only other current F1 driver with a private jet in his fleet. He owns a Dassault Falcon 900C.
Alonso had retired from the sport in 2018 but made a comeback with the Alpine team in 2021. The trijet is similar to Verstappen's Falcon 900EX, but the livery is nowhere as striking as the Belgian-Dutch racer's. However, don't assume that all 20 drivers on the grid are flying their own private jets.
Many teams, such as Ferrari, have aircraft used by drivers and top management between races. Indeed, only the highest-paid and top-scoring F1 drivers have ever owned private aircraft. On longer flights, such as to the Australian Grand Prix, commercial flights are the norm for most drivers even today.
Fernando Alonso, a two-time Formula 1 World Champion, owns a Dassault Falcon 900C . Known for his strategic acumen and precision on the track, Alonso's choice of jet mirrors his meticulous nature. The Falcon 900C offers a blend of comfort and efficiency, perfect for the veteran driver's frequent travels between continents.
With a career spanning over two decades, Alonso values the reliability and luxury that his jet provides, allowing him to focus on racing and his various other ventures. From Qatar Airways to AirAsia, several airlines have hosted F1 liveries, representing teams and circuits alike. Alonso's jet is more than just a mode of transportation; it's a mobile command center where he can review race data, conduct media interviews, or simply relax.
The aircraft's design and features align with Alonso's sophisticated tastes, providing a sanctuary in the sky that matches his high standards both on and off the track. His ownership of the Falcon 900C underscores his enduring presence and success in Formula 1. NASCAR drivers NASCAR Beyond F1, NASCAR is well-known for drivers and teams owning their own planes.
With a grueling schedule of 36 races in 10 months across the US, those who can afford it are willing to splurge on the luxury of flying on their own timetable. Beyond the high-octane world of Formula 1, NASCAR is another major motorsport where private aircraft ownership is prevalent among drivers and teams. With a demanding schedule that includes 36 races spread across 10 months and various locations throughout the United States, the convenience of owning a plane becomes a practical necessity.
For those with the means, having a private jet allows them to travel on their own terms, skipping the hassles of commercial flights and adhering to tight schedules. The luxury of private aviation in NASCAR isn't just about comfort—it's also a significant time-saver. Drivers, team members, and crew can quickly move from one race venue to another, ensuring they are well-rested and ready to perform.
The ability to travel on short notice and carry essential equipment also enhances their readiness for each race. This flexibility is crucial in a sport where every moment counts, and being able to control their travel plans adds a strategic advantage, allowing them to focus more on their performance and less on logistical challenges. Dale Earnhardt Jr Dale Earnhardt Jr.
is a third-generation driver in a family forever connected to stock-car racing. However, he retired from full-time NASCAR Cup Series competition at the end of 2017. He is the son of seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Dale Earnhardt, who passed away in February 2001.
Dale Jr owns a Learjet 60, which allows him more flexible air travel around the US. It can carry up to eight passengers, offering a range of 2,410 NM (4,463 km). In 2019, the American driver was involved in a serious incident that saw a Cessna Citation roll off the runway and catch fire while carrying him, his wife, and his 15-month-old daughter.
As reported by CNN , the Earnhardts sustained minor injuries while the pilots were unharmed. Dale Earnhardt Jr., one of NASCAR's most popular drivers, owns a Learjet 60 , a symbol of his success and status in the racing community.
The Learjet 60 is known for its speed and agility, qualities that align well with Earnhardt's on-track persona. This private jet offers him a luxurious and efficient way to travel, whether it's to a race or a personal engagement. The jet's plush interior and state-of-the-art amenities provide a comfortable environment for Earnhardt, allowing him to relax and focus on the challenges ahead.
For Earnhardt, the Learjet 60 is not just a luxury but a necessity. The jet's ability to quickly and comfortably transport him across the country is invaluable, given the hectic schedule of a NASCAR driver. The aircraft also offers a private space where Earnhardt can strategize with his team or spend time with his family, away from the public eye.
The Learjet 60 is a key component of Earnhardt's lifestyle, providing the perfect blend of speed, comfort, and privacy. Jimmie Johnson Jimmie Johnson is another seven-time NASCAR Champion Cup Series champion and competes part-time in the competition, driving the No. 84 Toyota Camry for the Legacy Motor Club.
Among the wealthiest NASCAR drivers, Johnson owns a Gulfstream G150, which costs around $16 million. The G150 is one of the fastest business jets in its class , with a maximum speed of Mach 0.875 and a cruise speed of 484 knots (896 km/h).
However, it's not always private jets owned by teams or drivers; some leagues team up with companies for their air travel requirements. Ultimately, commercial flying is challenging and inefficient during the season, so on-demand jet usage is likely the most feasible way for teams and drivers to travel. Jimmie Johnson, a NASCAR legend, travels in style with his Gulfstream G150.
This jet, known for its efficiency and speed, is a perfect fit for Johnson's demanding schedule. The G150 allows him to swiftly move between races, media appearances, and family commitments. Its comfortable cabin offers a relaxing environment where Johnson can rest and recharge, ensuring he remains at the top of his game.
The jet's practicality and luxury are a reflection of Johnson's successful career and his need for a reliable and comfortable mode of transport. Johnson's Gulfstream G150 is more than just a vehicle; it's a mobile base of operations. The jet's advanced technology and connectivity allow him to stay in touch with his team and manage business affairs while in the air.
The aircraft's sleek design and high-speed capabilities also mirror Johnson's own attributes as a driver—fast, reliable, and efficient. The Gulfstream G150 is an integral part of Johnson's life, supporting his busy lifestyle and keeping him connected to the world. Jeff Burton Jeff Burton, a respected name in NASCAR, owns a Cessna 525 CitationJet.
This jet is known for its efficiency and versatility, making it an excellent choice for Burton's travel needs. The CitationJet offers a combination of speed and comfort, allowing Burton to travel quickly between races and other engagements. Its advanced avionics and comfortable cabin make it a practical and luxurious mode of transport, aligning well with Burton's professional approach to racing and life.
For Burton, the Cessna 525 CitationJet serves as a critical asset in managing his busy schedule. The aircraft's capabilities enable him to maintain a presence at various events, whether it's for racing, broadcasting, or personal commitments. The jet's reliability and performance reflect Burton's own career, characterized by consistency and dedication.
It provides him with the flexibility to balance his professional and personal life, ensuring he can meet the demands of both. Carl Edwards Carl Edwards, known for his athleticism and competitive spirit in NASCAR, owns a Citation CJ3. The CJ3 is celebrated for its exceptional range and fuel efficiency, making it a perfect fit for Edwards' active lifestyle.
The jet offers a comfortable and spacious cabin, allowing Edwards to relax and prepare for races or other commitments. Its advanced features provide a seamless travel experience, enabling him to stay connected and productive while on the move. Edwards' choice of the Citation CJ3 reflects his practical and strategic mindset, both on and off the track.
The jet's performance capabilities mirror Edwards' own driving style—efficient, precise, and reliable. The CJ3 allows him to travel efficiently between races, media appearances, and personal engagements, making it an indispensable part of his life. The aircraft's blend of luxury and practicality aligns with Edwards' values, providing a balance between work and relaxation.
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