Lewis Hamilton Reveals the Strict Rule Everyone Must Follow on His $29 Million Private Jet
Formula 1 superstar Lewis Hamilton, celebrated for his seven world championships and extravagant lifestyle, once owned a luxurious Bombardier Challenger 605 private jet, valued at approximately $29 million. Acquired in 2013, the cherry-red aircraft, with its custom G-LCDH registration (standing for Lewis Carl Davidson Hamilton), was a bold emblem of his success. During a 2015 appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live, Hamilton revealed a strict rule for all passengers boarding his jet: everyone must remove their shoes to keep the interior immaculate.
Shoes Off: Hamilton’s Rule for a Pristine Jet
While chatting with Jimmy Kimmel Live host Jimmy Kimmel, Hamilton was quizzed about his jet’s eye-catching red exterior and its role in his high-flying life. When asked about onboard rules, Hamilton didn’t hesitate: “They’ll take shoes off. Come to my house, come on my plane, you’ll take your shoes off first.” The policy ensured the jet’s lavish interior—featuring leather seats, a king-size bed, a full kitchen, a bathroom, and high-speed Wi-Fi—remained spotless, reflecting Hamilton’s meticulous nature both on the racetrack and in his personal spaces.
The Bombardier Challenger 605 was built for luxury and performance, capable of carrying up to 19 passengers and flying 4,000 nautical miles non-stop. Its spacious cabin was perfect for Hamilton’s demanding schedule, whisking him to Formula 1 races, sponsor events, or personal trips with friends, family, and his bulldog, Coco, a frequent flyer. The shoe-removal rule was a small but telling detail, ensuring the jet remained a pristine haven for Hamilton and his guests.
A Jet Fit for a Formula 1 Star
Hamilton’s jet, purchased for an estimated $23-$29 million, was as distinctive as its owner. Its vibrant red livery and personalized G-LCDH registration made it a standout at airports worldwide. The interior was equipped with top-tier amenities, including entertainment systems and a galley, allowing Hamilton to relax or prepare for races during long flights. As a Mercedes driver during his ownership (and now with Ferrari in 2025), Hamilton used the jet to maintain his edge, arriving refreshed for high-stakes Grand Prix weekends.
The shoe rule underscored Hamilton’s disciplined personality. Whether hosting teammates, sponsors, or loved ones, he ensured his jet was a sanctuary of cleanliness and luxury. This attention to detail mirrored his approach to racing, where precision and preparation have made him one of Formula 1’s greatest drivers.
The Paradise Papers Scandal
Hamilton’s jet ownership faced controversy in 2017 when the Paradise Papers leak exposed a complex financial structure tied to its purchase. Documents showed that Hamilton’s advisers used offshore companies in the British Virgin Islands and the Isle of Man to secure a £3.3 million VAT refund. Critics argued the arrangement was designed to avoid taxes, as Hamilton used the jet for personal travel about a third of the time, which should have incurred VAT. His legal team insisted the setup was legal and approved by Isle of Man authorities, but tax experts questioned its compliance with European laws.
The controversy clashed with Hamilton’s growing environmental advocacy, including his support for initiatives like Just Stop Oil. Posts on X and media reports highlighted the tension between his eco-conscious image and ownership of a carbon-intensive jet. The incident fueled debates about wealth, privilege, and accountability among global sports figures.
Selling the Jet: A Step Toward Sustainability
In February 2019, Hamilton sold his Bombardier Challenger 605 for approximately $8.95 million, a significant loss from its original value. The decision was driven by his commitment to sustainability, as he sought to reduce his carbon footprint. Hamilton, who embraced veganism and drives electric vehicles like the Mercedes EQS, cited the jet’s environmental impact and high maintenance costs as key reasons for letting it go. The sale marked a pivotal moment in his journey toward aligning his lifestyle with his advocacy for a greener future.
Hamilton’s decision resonated with his efforts to push Formula 1 toward sustainability, including support for sustainable fuels and the sport’s net-zero emissions goal by 2030. While he occasionally charters private flights for professional needs—such as a 2023 Cessna 560XL Citation XLS to the Belgian Grand Prix—he now leans toward commercial travel when feasible, balancing his career demands with his environmental values.
Hamilton’s Legacy and a Memorable Rule
The shoe-removal rule, shared with a grin on Jimmy Kimmel Live, offers a charming glimpse into Hamilton’s personality—disciplined, detail-oriented, and protective of his environment. Now racing for Ferrari in the 2025 season, Hamilton continues to chase victories while advocating for sustainability, diversity, and social change. The Bombardier Challenger 605, once a symbol of his Formula 1 dominance, has been replaced by a broader mission to lead by example.
By selling his jet, Hamilton showed a willingness to evolve, prioritizing principles over extravagance. As he competes on the track and pushes for a greener Formula 1, his legacy grows—not just as a champion, but as a figure striving to make a difference. The shoe rule, though a footnote in his story, remains a reminder of the precision and care that define Lewis Hamilton, both in the cockpit and beyond.
