Lewis Hamilton has left Formula 1 fans stunned by announcing he will not be participating in the upcoming Miami Grand Prix, citing a reason that goes far beyond the racetrack.

The 40-year-old seven-time world champion, who has been struggling to adapt to Ferrari’s new SF-25 car in the 2025 season, admitted that racing is not his only priority this weekend. Instead, Hamilton will be focusing on co-chairing the 2025 Met Gala in New York, an opportunity he describes as “huge” and “deeply meaningful.”

“Naturally, I hope this year’s Met Gala sparks conversation and reconfirms the connection between fashion and self-expression, and how deep it runs in Black culture,” Hamilton explained passionately. “I hope it allows us to show that we have ownership of our identity, of how we see ourselves and one another, and how we use fashion to combat preconceived notions with humanity and dignity.”

Hamilton revealed that attending and now co-chairing the Met Gala is more than just a glamorous event for him — it’s part of a larger mission to amplify underrepresented voices. “Of course, I always wanted to go to the Met Gala, and I got invited for the first time in 2015. It’s always been a privilege to attend, but in 2021, I no longer wanted to just be another person in the room,” he told Vogue.

Recalling his turning point, he added, “I was working with Law Roach, who is a dear friend, and I was like, ‘What if we created a table together where we invite a few up-and-coming Black designers, have them dress some guests, and we all show up together — so it’s about creating space and opportunity?’ That night opened up a dialogue about amplifying underrepresented voices and talent.”

The British superstar emphasized that skipping the Miami race was not a decision made lightly. “I understand fans might be disappointed,” he admitted. “Formula 1 has been my life’s passion. But sometimes there are moments that transcend sport, and for me, co-chairing the Met Gala this year — with its theme of ‘Black Dandyism’ — is one of those moments.”

Hamilton has been deeply involved in preparing for the event alongside Pharrell Williams, and his excitement is palpable. “Timing is everything,” he said. “To have co-chaired a previous Met Gala wouldn’t have been as special. I’m really proud. I remember watching Pharrell as a kid and thinking, ‘He’s so stylish and cool.’ It’s surreal for me now to be co-chairing with him.”

“This moment is going to be huge,” Hamilton concluded. “It’s a testament to our legacy. A message that it can’t be erased. In a world where diversity is being questioned or rolled back, it’s vital to continue celebrating and elevating Black history.”

While Ferrari and the F1 world grapple with Hamilton’s absence at the Miami GP, there is no doubt that his decision is rooted in a cause that he believes is much bigger than motorsport. Fans around the globe will now be looking forward not just to the next time he takes the wheel — but also to the historic entrance he will make at the Met Gala.