F1 Drivers’ Insane Private Jets at the Belgian GP: A Look Inside Their Luxurious Travel

Formula 1 drivers are not only the fastest on the track but also among the most luxurious travelers in the world. Their private jets offer a glimpse into the exclusive lifestyles of these elite athletes, especially when they converge for iconic races like the Belgian Grand Prix. From the types of jets they fly to the number of passengers on board and the costs involved, this article dives into the fascinating world of F1 private jet travel. Join me as we explore which drivers flew private, the jets they used, and how this mode of travel enhances their race weekend experience.

Which Jets Did the F1 Drivers Use for the Belgian Grand Prix?

The Belgian GP weekend saw a range of private jets touching down at Liège Airport, the closest major airport to the Spa-Francorchamps circuit. The jets varied in size, price, and passenger capacity, reflecting the diverse preferences and needs of the drivers and their entourages.

The Pilatus PC-24 from Nice: A Likely Ride for Lewis Hamilton

One notable aircraft was a five-year-old Pilatus PC-24 arriving from Nice. This jet seats between eight and eleven passengers, making it a versatile choice for small groups. A telltale Ferrari luggage bag spotted during disembarkation suggested a Ferrari-affiliated passenger might be on board, though Charles Leclerc had already arrived earlier.

Interestingly, the passenger did not deplane on the tarmac but instead the jet was towed into the hangar for a discreet exit. While neither I nor my videographer saw who stepped out, the behavior mirrors Lewis Hamilton’s private travel habits from a few years ago. Hamilton, a seven-time world champion, used to own a red Bombardier Challenger 605 with the registration LCDH—his initials. Although he sold it in 2019, this Pilatus PC-24’s arrival and discreet unloading strongly hint that it could have been him.

Carlos Sainz’s Bombardier Challenger 604

Carlos Sainz arrived on another private jet, a Bombardier Challenger 604 from Nice. This aircraft is configured for up to ten passengers and can be found secondhand for around 5.5 million dollars. Sainz was the only passenger we spotted disembarking at Liège, indicating a comfortable and private journey.

The Jet with the Most Drivers: Dassault Falcon 2000

Among the jets seen, the Dassault Falcon 2000 stood out for carrying the largest number of passengers. These jets are serious business, with used models priced around 12 million dollars and new ones close to 38 million. Seating about ten passengers depending on configuration, the Falcon 2000 was packed with a star-studded lineup:

• Melissa Jimenez, Fernando Alonso’s girlfriend
• Fernando Alonso himself
• Fernando’s trainer Eduardo
• Gabrielle Bartoleto and his girlfriend Isabella Bernadini
• Oliver Bearman (without his girlfriend)
• Valtteri Bottas
• Oscar Piastri, accompanied by his mother, father, aunt, uncle, grandfather, and manager Mark Webber

All these passengers traveled together, demonstrating the Falcon 2000’s spaciousness and suitability for group charters. Interestingly, the drivers and their teams coordinate these flights through a WhatsApp group, streamlining communication and logistics.

Other Notable Jet Arrivals at the Belgian GP

Lando Norris’s Learjet 60 from London

Lando Norris arrived on a Learjet 60 from London, a jet that can be picked up used for a couple of million dollars. The flight from London to Liège takes about 80 minutes. Norris was not alone; accompanying him were Fraser Sheader (his manager’s business partner), John Malvin (his long-time trainer), and McLaren Racing Director Randeep Singh, who has even been on the podium himself.

Max Verstappen’s Own Dassault Falcon 8X

Max Verstappen is unique among F1 drivers as the only one who owns his own aircraft. His 2022 Dassault Falcon 8X is valued at around 50 million dollars. This ultra-long-range jet offers exceptional comfort and performance. It touched down from Nice but parked out of sight, adding an extra layer of privacy. Shortly after, an Airbus H135 helicopter departed for the Spa circuit, likely ferrying Verstappen or his team.

Lance Stroll’s Bombardier Global 5000

Lance Stroll, rarely flying commercial, arrived on a Bombardier Global 5000. This large long-range business jet seats up to seventeen passengers, making it the biggest jet seen at Liège during the weekend. An interesting fact is that Bombardier, the Canadian manufacturer, also produces some of the world’s best jet skis—a fun side note considering the difference in price and scale!

One eagle-eyed spotter noted that Lance’s jet was equipped with the Starlink jet package, providing high-speed internet at 30,000 feet—a game-changer for connectivity on the go. Stroll flew from London after making some seat adjustments, which I confirmed after chatting with his trainer Henry, who was seen carrying the seat into the garage.

Charles Leclerc’s Embraer Legacy 650E

Charles Leclerc arrived early Wednesday evening in a ten-year-old Embraer Legacy 650E, which departed from Bologna near Maranello. The flight took 79 minutes. Although the aircraft can seat thirteen people, it appeared that only Charles and his trainer Andrea were on board. Given the jet’s size, it was a spacious and comfortable ride for just two passengers.

Leclerc’s arrival was low-key, with a brief wave to fans before heading off to the track.

Private Jets Beyond the Drivers

It’s not just the drivers who fly private. Team principals and CEOs also take advantage of private jets to save time and maintain privacy. For example, VCARB CEO Peter Bayer flew in on a Cessna Citation CJ3+ from Krakow, Poland, a flight that takes nearly two hours but would be a thirteen-hour drive by car.

Additionally, Sauber team principal Jonathan Wheatley shared how the team celebrated a recent victory briefly before quickly returning to the factory to prepare for the weekend, illustrating the fast-paced nature of F1 beyond the glamour.

The Advantages and Controversies of Flying Private

Private jet travel offers clear benefits to F1 drivers and their teams:

• Flexibility: Fly when you want, avoiding the rigid schedules of commercial airlines.
• Time-saving: Direct flights to smaller airports closer to race venues.
• Privacy: Avoid large crowds and fans, especially important for high-profile drivers like Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso.
• Comfort: Spacious cabins, personalized amenities, and the ability to work or relax en route.

For example, Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso could easily be mobbed if arriving at major commercial airports like Heathrow, even with VIP security. Private jets eliminate much of that hassle.

However, private jet travel is not without controversy. Environmental concerns and the carbon footprint associated with private aviation have sparked debates. While the convenience and luxury are undeniable, many fans and observers question the sustainability of such travel in the modern era.

These concerns are valid, and everyone is welcome to share their opinions on the matter. The balance between luxury, performance, and responsibility is an ongoing conversation in the world of Formula 1 and beyond.

FAQs About F1 Drivers and Their Private Jets

Which F1 drivers own private jets?

Max Verstappen is currently the only F1 driver known to own his own private jet, a Dassault Falcon 8X valued at around 50 million dollars. Lewis Hamilton previously owned a Bombardier Challenger 605 but sold it in 2019.

How much does it cost for F1 drivers to fly private?

Costs vary depending on the aircraft and route. For example, a super light jet flight from Nice to Liège costs around 12,000 euros, while a super midsize jet costs about 16,000 euros. Long-distance flights, such as from Dubai, can cost up to 60,000 euros.

Why do F1 drivers choose to fly private?

Flying private offers flexibility, privacy, comfort, and significant time savings. It also helps drivers avoid large crowds and airport hassles, allowing them to focus on race preparation.

Is Liège the closest airport to the Belgian GP track?

Yes, Liège Airport is the closest major airport to Spa-Francorchamps. There is a smaller airstrip nearby, but it cannot accommodate large jets or provide refueling services.

Who else besides drivers fly private to F1 events?

Team principals, CEOs, managers, trainers, and family members often fly private to F1 events to keep the team organized and ensure smooth logistics.

Conclusion

The private jets of Formula 1 drivers at the Belgian Grand Prix offer a fascinating peek behind the scenes of F1’s high-flying lifestyle. From Lewis Hamilton’s discreet arrivals to Max Verstappen’s multimillion-dollar Falcon 8X, these jets represent more than just luxury—they are vital tools for managing tight schedules and maintaining privacy in a demanding sport.

Whether it’s the convenience of a short hop from London or the long-range capabilities needed for international travel, private jets are an essential part of the modern F1 weekend. While flying private comes with costs and environmental debates, the allure of comfort, exclusivity, and time efficiency remains undeniable for these racing stars.

For fans and enthusiasts curious about the logistics behind the glamour, the world of F1 private jets is as thrilling as the races themselves.