Do you ever wonder what goes through the mind of a Formula One driver as they tear around the track at 120mph? How do they stay focused at such speeds, while the team’s advice funnels at equal pace into their headset? The slightest wrong manoeuvre could cost them the race.

This extreme speed requires the utmost focus and precision, and it is this unrelenting attention to detail that we’ve long admired and strive for in our own pursuit of excellence in hospitality. As a result, this year we feel deeply privileged to celebrate our first partnership with Williams Racing, having kickstarted the 2023 season in Bahrain.

At the forefront of Williams Racing for 2023, British-Thai driver Alex Albon has quickly established himself as a prominent and much-loved figure of Formula One. We have had the pleasure of hosting Albon throughout the season, and, just as he strives for perfection on the track, we have strived to provide the ultimate respite from the whirlwind demands of Formula One.

From realising his childhood dreams to overcoming personal obstacles, Albon's journey has been as exhilarating as the adrenaline-fuelled sport he adores. Following his exclusive interview at The Carlton Tower Jumeirah, we have delved into his milestones to reveal the man behind the helmet.

Fulfilling a childhood dream

Albon's love for speed was ignited at Silverstone, where he took his first driving lessons at the tender age of eight. While the thundering roar of a passing Formula One car had initially intimidated him, it also sparked his ambition. Today, Albon navigates those same tracks with the ease of riding a bike, proving that dreams, when chased with passion and vigour, can indeed become reality.

Earlier this year, Albon celebrated Williams Racing’s 800th Grand Prix at Silverstone. If you’re staying with us at The Carlton Tower Jumeirah, it’s well worth speaking to our concierge to book a day trip to the Williams Experience Centre and see the old cars, the manufacturing process and the journey the brand has gone through.

Overcoming adversity

Albon’s journey hasn't been without its challenges. Some might assume that fear would have been the most daunting part of Formula One, but Albon feels at home with the speedometer flickering around the 120-mph mark. Instead, he has explained that as an introvert he has struggled most with public speaking, media interviews and marketing events.

Over time, he has learnt to balance the demands of his high-octane profession with his personal attributes. His quiet confidence and infectious smile have earned him the reputation as the “most wanted man” in Formula One, with many of the teams making him lucrative offers.

This has been quite a season for Albon, who faced the toughest race of his career in Qatar. Earlier this year, Albon was celebrated by his rivals for equalling his career-best qualifying performance to make fourth place on the grid for the Dutch Grand Prix. Mercedes’ George Russell praised him saying "I'm really pleased to see him up there and it shows when you get your confidence how that can really transform the performance. Williams are making a huge amount of progress at the moment, I think James Vowles is having a really positive impact there.”

Life in the fast lane

The fast-paced life of a Formula One driver isn’t solely about the thrill of speed. It's a test of endurance, especially when also navigating challenging time zones. Luckily, Albon and his team have perfected the art of managing jet lag with the help of an entourage of sleep doctors and nutritionists. They even have a specific light exposure plan to help adjust to new time zones. So, if you’ve ever spotted a Formula One driver donning sunglasses in an airport, it's not a show of diva behaviour but a practical measure to combat jet lag.

Albon also shared his competitive side off the racetrack. Despite admitting to being embarrassingly bad at golf, he relishes the challenge it offers, especially against his professional golfer partner.

Experiencing Williams Racing with Jumeirah

Jumeirah’s hotels and resorts offer adrenaline seekers like Albon a serene sanctuary to unwind and rejuvenate. Our elegant rooms and suites in some of the world’s most striking locations are equipped with stylish amenities and designed for ultimate comfort and privacy.

As we gear up for the season finale, Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Jumeirah One members and race fans staying at Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort & Spa will enjoy unparalleled access to special events and experiences planned exclusively with Williams Racing.

After an adrenaline-filled day, our guests can indulge in sumptuous spa treatments or dine at our world-class restaurants, offering a fusion of local and international cuisines prepared by renowned chefs.

Moreover, Jumeirah’s commitment to personalised service ensures that each guest’s stay is tailored to their individual preferences. Whether it's arranging a private yacht charter, a helicopter tour, or a curated itinerary, Jumeirah goes above and beyond to create unforgettable experiences.

In the world of Formula One, where the pursuit of excellence is relentless, Jumeirah stands as a beacon of luxury and exceptional service. We are proud to support Williams Racing drivers, and to provide them with the comfort, relaxation, and unique experiences they need to keep chasing their dreams.

To view Alex Albon’s interview in full, click here and stay tuned for more exclusive insights from the fast-paced world of Formula One. Jumeirah’s hotels and resorts are located in some of the most striking Formula One destinations around the world. Speak to our concierge team to book a bespoke trip to Bahrain, London, Abu Dhabi.