Social media is criticized worldwide for spreading misinformation, and the Formula 1 side of things is not immune to such a phenomenon. Various pages share titles such as “Lewis Hamilton to McLaren confirmed,” in the official F1 font, with the hope to dupe viewers.
One such recent attempt has been made on Hamilton’s life: somewhat literally! Recently, social media platforms like Twitter (now known as X) saw “RIP Hamilton” trending, much to the confusion of the very much alive 7-time world champion, who was only guilty of trying to enjoy a summer break before the season resumes.
Formula One fans thought Lewis Hamilton died while “Rip Hamilton” trended
Recently, many fans saw “RIP Hamilton” trending on Twitter, much to the shock and worry of fans, and anyone who follows the sport.
I saw Rip Hamilton trending under sports and I thought Lewis Hamilton died 😭😭😭 pic.twitter.com/ksEzZ0x5lA
— 𝓥𝓸𝓵𝓽 🇵🇱 🇮🇪 (@vo1t_zer0) August 21, 2023
Given that social media tends to have genuine information on it too, it is not surprising that people jumped to conclusions based on a preliminary analysis of the situation. Nevertheless, one does feel silly after falling for such so-called “pranks.”
My stupid ass saw Rip Hamilton trending and thought Lewis just died 💀#f1 pic.twitter.com/nkzyyq7UtG
— SoRoush (@donutsot) August 21, 2023
But here’s where it gets confusing: the trend does not specify which Hamilton. “Rip Hamilton” could also have referred to the world-famous musical, Hamilton. But what it was actually referring to, was basketball player Richard “Rip” Hamilton! Once this was realized by fans, the hilarity of the situation came to light:
who the fuck named this man rip hamilton 💀
— Barfy (@Barfy_) August 21, 2023
Anyone seeing rip Hamilton will think, Lewis Hamilton died 😑 pic.twitter.com/KTzuCXktWg
— Deji Of Lagos 𝕏 (@Jayswiz_) August 21, 2023
The “Rip Hamilton” trend was neither an attempt at spreading misinformation nor a reference to the musical Hamilton; it was about the basketball player. But now that this has been established, where is the 7-time world champion right now?
Lewis Hamilton is safe and enjoying his summer vacation
Not only is the Mercedes superstar safe and sound, he is currently enjoying a well-earned summer break, as far away from social media as he can. This is understandably so, given the debacle that could’ve been!
He's enjoying his summer break as he should 🥰🥰🥰#LewisHamiltonpic.twitter.com/fZTTKyPri9
— Hamilton Insights (@LH44_insights) August 19, 2023
Recently, Lewis even posted a picture of him on Instagram enjoying a swim in his break, captioning it, “Out of Office” to highlight that he’s currently enjoying his time off work!
The Mercedes superstar has also been reportedly spending some time trying his hand at motor-biking, apart from spending quality time with his family and with his dog, Roscoe. The star has also been reportedly spotted with pop star Shakira this break!
Did you fall for the “Rip Hamilton” mishap on Twitter? Or could you see past it, knowing it really referred to the basketball player? Comment your thoughts on this situation below!
