The now number-one singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran teamed up with Formula One driver George Russell for a high-speed journey at the Miami Grand Prix. It was a really thrilling mix of motorsport and music; fans from both realms gathered around this unexpected pairing, keen to witness Sheeran’s response to the unrestrained power of a Formula One car.
“Need for Speed” by Ed Sheeran Album
Popular for his heartfelt ballads and acoustic performances, Sheeran has stepped outside of his musical comfort zone and taken a seat in the cockpit of a machine that speaks a totally different language—one of speed and accuracy. Perched in the passenger seat of a Mercedes-AMG GT R, Sheeran was granted entry to the Pirelli HotLaps competition. Under this programme, VIPs and celebrities can feel the rush of racing on a Formula One circuit.
Sheeran was hosted by George Russell, a young British driver who is renowned for his ability to keep composed under duress. Given the season’s strong beginning, Russell was the ideal person to introduce Sheeran to the world of Formula 1.
A new addition to the International Formula One calendar, the Miami track has a symphony of challenging turns and fast straightaways. Sheeran could clearly feel the effects of the incident while Russell was navigating the circuit. It was likened by him to a rollercoaster ride with a thunderous V8 engine.
After the thrilling lap, Sheeran got out of the car grinning broadly and said how much he loved the sport. He was so excited and respected the drivers who tamed these beasts on every racing weekend that he yelled, “That was f***** up!”
Ed Sheeran and George Russell debuted in Formula One during the Miami Grand Prix. This occasion reminded me that high-octane adrenaline can be harmoniously combined with music and race. The lap proved not just how appealing Formula One is to a new audience but also how appealing it is to everyone to step outside of one’s comfort zone and experience life at full throttle.
