The nicknames team principals give to drivers: from Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton to the Mercedes duo, an official F1 video reveals curious anecdotes. Frédéric Vasseur reveals a surprisingly tender side of his personality, while Toto Wolff remains firm in his austere seriousness. James Vowles, on the other hand, appears confused as he follows the social evolution of the Albon – Sainz duo.
The team principal figure is certainly a cornerstone of every Formula 1 team. Not only does this role determine (and sometimes dictate) the technical direction to follow, managing resources and personnel: it must also serve as a unifying force within the team, inspiring, leading, and even protecting it from external attacks. A role often compared to that of a football coach, but with additional layers of complexity.
At times a paternal figure, the team principal must maintain a solid relationship above all with the two drivers. Whether during moments of glory, such as major team victories, or during phases of intense individualism, like the fight for the drivers’ title, a team principal must never lose their grip on those speeding on track. And this is where a nickname can help break the ice.
Frédéric Vasseur reveals Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc’s nicknames
In an official video published on Formula 1’s social media channels, some curious anecdotes are revealed. The first to speak is Frédéric Vasseur, who, with a smile and a laugh as genuine as it is full of pride, shares the nicknames of Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton. The Monegasque becomes Charlo, while the seven-time world champion beside him is called Lulu.
From McLaren, Zak Brown is more elaborate, giving Oscar Piastri the nickname Oscar Roger Dodger, though he doesn’t quite remember its origin. Fitting the stereotype that Austrians and Germans are proud of their stern nature, Toto Wolff gives a curt reply: the Mercedes duo, consisting of Andrea Kimi Antonelli and George Russell, are simply Kimi and George.
A confused James Vowles, team principal of Williams, wonders about the real nickname of the pair formed by Alexander Albon and Carlos Sainz: “Personally, I don’t have nicknames for my drivers. I think the fans called them… I’m really confused, I thought it was Carbon, then it became Carbonara and now it’s Carbono!”
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