Rising Formula 1 star Franco Colapinto has made a striking decision to step away from social media, citing its “toxic” nature—a move that mirrors concerns raised by Lewis Hamilton about the challenges young drivers face in the digital age.
The 21-year-old Argentinian, who skyrocketed to fame after joining Williams mid-season, has found himself at the center of intense media and fan scrutiny. With over four million Instagram followers and a cult-like following in South America, Colapinto is adjusting to life as a sports sensation—fame typically reserved for legends like Lionel Messi.
“I Deleted Twitter; It’s Too Toxic”
Speaking at the Las Vegas Grand Prix, Colapinto opened up about his decision to leave X (formerly Twitter) and his efforts to shield himself from the relentless pressures of social media.
“Well, it’s a very strange thing. I deleted Twitter because I think it’s very toxic. Whatever you do, it has a very big impact,” Colapinto said. “Fans take news from every little thing that you are doing. It helps to not get so distracted because it’s not very useful.”
The Williams rookie acknowledged the darker side of instant global connectivity:
“It’s very easy for people to go online and start spreading … not-so-nice things. But it’s part of the job, and you have to understand that.”
Hamilton’s Powerful Message to the Next Generation
Just days after Colapinto’s candid admission, Lewis Hamilton shared his own concerns about the toll social media can take on young drivers. The seven-time world champion issued a stern warning to rookies entering the high-stakes world of Formula 1.
“Don’t let the negativity get to you because people are so negative nowadays, judging you non-stop,” Hamilton said. “Stay off social media and keep your family and closest friends close to you because they’re your only true friends when the going gets tough.”
Hamilton, reflecting on his own experience as a young driver, emphasized the importance of boundaries and self-protection:
“When I was 22 and thrown in the deep end, you’re trying to be nice, but people take advantage of you. Ask lots of questions, take your time, and don’t let anyone dictate everything you do.”
The Pressure of Public Mistakes
Hamilton also highlighted the amplified pressure young drivers face when mistakes happen under the public spotlight.
“It’s about not knocking them down when they make mistakes. When you make mistakes in the spotlight, it’s really tough. We need to lift them up and support them.”
The Mercedes driver believes a strong support system is essential for young athletes navigating the pressures of fame and criticism.
“If I had a young driver, I’d put a lot of support around them so social media couldn’t affect them. People can be brutal online, and it’s about ensuring that doesn’t knock them off track.”
A New Approach to the F1 Spotlight
Colapinto’s decision to step away from the toxicity of social media is a rare but significant choice in a sport where drivers are often encouraged to maintain a digital presence. Paired with Hamilton’s sage advice, it underscores a growing awareness of the psychological toll that fame, social media, and public scrutiny can have on athletes.
As Colapinto continues to navigate his burgeoning career, his approach could serve as a blueprint for young drivers grappling with the overwhelming expectations of the modern Formula 1 landscape.
