The 2026 Champions League final between holders Paris Saint-Germain and Premier League champions Arsenal has plenty of interest in the F1 paddock. Several drivers are vocal football fans, and some will be watching the game closely in Budapest. Here’s a rundown of which clubs the drivers back and a few of the stories behind their allegiances.
Pierre Gasly, Esteban Ocon and Isack Hadjar — Paris Saint-Germain
Gasly, Ocon and Hadjar are all supporters of PSG. The trio have been spotted at big matches this season, including PSG’s 2-0 quarter-final win over Liverpool, and celebrated the club’s maiden Champions League triumph last year. Gasly and Hadjar in particular have shown their passion publicly — Gasly is also a co-owner of French side FC Versailles — so expect some celebrations in the paddock if PSG retain the trophy.
Lewis Hamilton and Oscar Piastri — Arsenal
Lewis Hamilton has been an Arsenal fan since childhood, encouraged by his family, and has regularly shown his support on social media and at big moments for the club. Oscar Piastri also roots for Arsenal, largely because his partner’s family are Gunners supporters — he describes himself as a fan “by default.” Both will be cheering for Arsenal in the final.
Carlos Sainz and Fernando Alonso — Real Madrid
Carlos Sainz and Fernando Alonso are long-time Real Madrid supporters, influenced by family ties. Madrid’s history in Europe and domestic success has made them natural fans, and both drivers have been seen wearing Madrid shirts around the paddock and attending matches where possible.
Nico Hülkenberg — Bayern Munich
Nico Hülkenberg is a Bayern Munich supporter and a fan of the German national team. He was at the Allianz Arena for PSG’s semi-final victory this season and follows Bayern’s sustained domestic success closely.
Arvid Lindblad and Lando Norris — Manchester United
Racing Bulls rookie Arvid Lindblad is a Manchester United supporter, as is Lando Norris. Lindblad grew up following the Red Devils, while Norris followed United during the Cristiano Ronaldo years and spent parts of his childhood attending Bristol City games thanks to his father’s connections.
Charles Leclerc — AS Monaco
Charles Leclerc supports his local club AS Monaco. He’s proud of his Monaco roots, competes in charity matches in the Principality, and often shows his support for the team that represents his hometown.
Max Verstappen — PSV Eindhoven
Max Verstappen is a PSV Eindhoven fan, a habit formed watching games with his father as a child. He remains an enthusiastic supporter of Dutch football and has played and trained with several national-team players.
Kimi Antonelli — Bologna
Kimi Antonelli, born in Bologna, supports the local side. Although Bologna’s most successful years were before his time, Antonelli keeps close ties to the club and met the squad at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix.
George Russell — Wolverhampton Wanderers
George Russell is a long-time Wolves fan and has been a season-ticket holder. His father introduced him to the club, and Russell has returned to watch matches when his schedule allows, even through difficult seasons for the team.
Franco Colapinto — Boca Juniors
Argentinian driver Franco Colapinto supports Boca Juniors. Growing up in Buenos Aires, backing one of the city’s giants is almost a given, and Colapinto has visited La Bombonera and taken part in club events.
Sergio Pérez — Club América
Sergio Pérez is a fan of Mexico City’s Club América, one of the country’s most successful and widely supported teams. He follows the club’s fortunes and has strong links to Mexican football culture.
Across the grid there are many other football connections, from local loyalties to family-influenced allegiances. Whether it’s domestic league rivalries or European finals, football provides plenty of shared passion and occasional paddock celebrations among drivers and team members.