My 1st @vanityfair Sept issue! Such a fun shoot to work on and what a talent @lewishamilton ! All the superstars BTS @jessicaneises @milesapope @chapoteau The seven-time Formula 1 champion is one of the most famous athletes on the planet, but the maverick Mercedes driver still takes pride in proving the “s--t talkers” wrong. (“If I let those words—those projections people are putting out, those little digs—if I let that bring me down, then they win.”) At the link in bio, Hamilton speaks bluntly about his early days in the sport, the controversial events of the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, and speculation about the end of his contract. V.F. digital and print cover photographed by @adrienneraquel Story by Chris Heath Styled by @ericjmcneal Hair by Lisa Torres Set design by @stefanbeckman Location: Related’s 520 West 28th by Zaha Hadid building