The festive spirit permeated the Formula 1 paddock as drivers engaged in their annual Secret Santa gift exchange on December 23, 2025, in Abu Dhabi. This year’s event showcased a range of thoughtful and humorous gifts, highlighting the camaraderie among the competitors.
Among the standout presents was Kimi Antonelli’s first Secret Santa gift as a Formula 1 driver, which he received from Lando Norris. The Mercedes driver unwrapped a cushion shaped like a person, which he humorously referenced as “23, Jordan, and myself,” linking it to his sporting idol, Michael Jordan. Additionally, Norris gifted Antonelli a Lego model of a McLaren car, famously driven by Ayrton Senna. Antonelli expressed his gratitude, saying, “Whoever did this, thank you very much. Well, well thought.”
In a heartfelt moment, Lando Norris himself received a nostalgic gift. He unrolled a poster featuring a young Alex Albon, sharing that Albon was once his hero. “That’s adorable,” Norris remarked, reflecting on his admiration for Albon. He noted he had a large picture of Albon on his wall for ten years, adding, “This is now going to replace it.”
Pierre Gasly joined the mix of lighthearted exchanges by presenting Charles Leclerc with a book titled “Comment être un bon époux?” or “How to be a good husband.” This gift was particularly relevant as Leclerc prepares for his upcoming marriage to Alexandra Saint Mleux. Leclerc chuckled at the inscription inside the book, which read, “I’ll have it back when you’re done,” and he affirmed his appreciation for the advice the book might offer.
Rivalry took a humorous turn when George Russell unwrapped his gift from Leclerc. The photo frame contained an image of Leclerc overtaking Russell at the Dutch Grand Prix, along with a video of the moment. Russell playfully remarked, “He can only overtake illegally, that’s all he’s got in the locker.” The friendly banter between the two highlighted the competitive yet supportive nature of their relationship.
Amidst the youthful exuberance, one gift stood out for its practicality. Fernando Alonso, the oldest driver on the grid at 44, received a walking stick. As he opened the long box, he humorously mused about its potential use, jokingly suggesting that it might come in handy as he ages. Alonso guessed that his fellow driver Nico Hulkenberg was the giver, saying, “Thank you very much, it will be useful. Not now, not yet, but one day.”
This annual gift exchange not only served as a light-hearted break from the competitive nature of Formula 1 but also reinforced the friendships and bonds formed among the drivers. As they prepare for the upcoming season, the memories of this festive occasion will linger, adding a touch of warmth to the high-speed world of racing.
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