As some of the most recognisable athletes in the world, Formula 1 drivers have built successful careers with their precision, performance, and strong personal branding in the media. Unsurprisingly, that branding has extended beyond the motorsport itself, with drivers venturing into the world of luxury fashion, watches, and, most recently, fragrances — with McLaren’s Lando Norris becoming the new face of Ralph Lauren Polo Red, while Alpine’s Pierre Gasly is appointed fragrance ambassador for Givenchy Gentleman, the two perfectly embody the adrenaline-fueled scents they represent.
But, beyond these strategic collaborations, what do Formula 1 drivers actually smell like? Well, when they’re not covered in sweat and champagne, the drivers have often been complimented on how they smell (and look) at high-profile events and even pre-race interviews. Though, unlike what they wear on the paddock and on their wrists, there is a level of ambiguity regarding what perfumes they actively integrate into their routines – leading to many fans speculating which scents they might wear based on the driver’s personalities.
Here at Men’s Folio, we do not gatekeep: so we did some digging and uncovered the answers to which perfumes your favourite drivers are wearing. From bold, high-energy notes that mirror their high-octane driving styles to refined, understated scents that reflect a more cool guy vibe, these Formula 1 drivers’ perfume picks reveal a deeper dimension of who they are beyond the track.
Lewis Hamilton
Tom Ford Oud Wood ($450)
A refined, creamy oud scent with nutty notes of cardamom mixed with amber and vanilla.
Maison Margiela Replica By The Fireplace ($170)
Cosy and comforting notes of fresh clove, chestnut, and cashmere wrapped in a sheer veil of firewood smoke.
Pierre Gasly
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Boadicea The Victorious Valiant ($1,190)
Citrusy orange and grapefruit blended perfectly with Indian jasmine.
Ollie Bearman
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Initio Parfums Privés Psychedelic Love ($420)
A rich, decadent scent featuring creamy, powdery, and floral notes of ylang-ylang, bergamot, and vanilla.
Charles Leclerc
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Louis Vuitton Imagination ($360)
A fresh Mediterranean blend of Sicilian oranges and Calabrian bergamot.
George Russell
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AMAFFI Tropical Rain ($2,700)
An intense blend of wild herbs with fig tree leaves from the tropics.
Lando Norris
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Louis Vuitton L’Immensité ($360)
A clean, masculine mix of fresh amber and a slightly spicy citrus scent.
Dior Sauvage ($165)
Sparkling, spicy notes of bergamot, pepper, geranium, and cedar.
Tom Ford Ombré Leather ($240)
A versatile scent with balanced spicy, floral, and earthy undertones of cardamom, jasmine, and moss.
Max Verstappen
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Bvlgari Man In Black ($185)
Smooth, smoky leather accords paired with dark woody notes and subtle hints of iris.
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