Lewis Hamilton:
You step into the paddock, your nerves buzzing with excitement and anxiety. It's your first time at an F1 event, and you can hardly believe where you are. The atmosphere is electric—people are buzzing around, crew members are working on cars, and reporters are everywhere. As you glance around, the famous drivers you've only seen on TV seem much more real, more tangible, in the flesh.
And then, you spot him.
Lewis Hamilton.
The seven-time World Champion, the icon of Formula 1, is standing just a few feet away. His unmistakable style is hard to miss—his braided hair pulled back, wearing a sharp designer outfit that sets him apart from everyone else. You feel your heart race. This is your chance. You've admired him from afar for so long, but meeting him face-to-face feels surreal.
You swallow nervously, gathering the courage to walk over. You've been introduced to a lot of people today, but none of them have made you feel quite like this.
As you approach, Lewis glances up and smiles warmly. That legendary charm of his, the kind that makes people feel like they're the only ones in the room, is immediately disarming.
"Hey," he says, offering his hand. "You must be (Y/N), right? I've heard a lot about you."
You blink in surprise. He's heard about you?
"Y-yeah," you stammer, shaking his hand. "I can't believe I'm meeting you in person."
Lewis chuckles, his smile never fading. "Well, it's great to meet you, too. Welcome to the F1 paddock! How's your first day going?"
You try to stay cool, despite the butterflies in your stomach. "It's... amazing. Overwhelming, but in a good way. I didn't expect to actually meet you today."
He grins. "Well, you're here now. Have you had a chance to check out the garage yet? I could give you a little tour if you want."
Your heart skips a beat. "Seriously? I'd love that!"
Lewis gestures for you to follow him, and as you walk side by side through the bustling paddock, you can't help but marvel at how down-to-earth he is despite his superstar status. He points out details about the cars, the team, and the intricate technology that makes F1 so thrilling.
"I've been in this sport a long time," he says, glancing at you as you both pause near his car. "But there's always something new to learn, some way to push the limits. I think that's what keeps me going."
You nod, soaking in every word. "It must be amazing, being able to chase that feeling every day."
Lewis looks at you thoughtfully, his smile softening. "It is. But it's even better when you get to share it with people who appreciate the passion behind it. You seem like one of those people."
You feel your cheeks warm at the compliment, but you manage to keep your voice steady. "I've always admired your drive—not just on the track, but off it, too."
His expression brightens, clearly appreciating your words. "That means a lot. Hey, if you ever want to talk more about racing or anything else, don't hesitate to reach out."
As the conversation continues, you can hardly believe how naturally everything is flowing. By the time you part ways, you feel like you've not only met your hero but connected with him in a way you never thought possible.
As you walk away, the paddock buzzing around you, you know this is a moment you'll never forget.
Max Verstappen:
The bright lights of the interview room felt almost blinding as I adjusted my seat, trying to look calm despite the growing nerves. My first big assignment as an interviewer at a Formula 1 race, and I was about to speak with none other than Max Verstappen. His dominance on the track, his fierce determination—it all preceded him.
