Too hot to Handel! Lewis Hamilton shows his appreciation for 18th century composer George Frideric as eccentric F1 ace makes another bold fashion statement

His questionable style statements have arguably generated as much attention as his exploits on the grid, but Lewis Hamilton had another surprise in store as he ventured out on Wednesday afternoon. 

The fashion conscious Formula One ace revealed a hitherto unknown appreciation for classical music, in particular the symphonies of famed 18th century Baroque composer George Frideric Handel, while dining out in West Hollywood. 

Happy-go-lucky Lewis, 37, wore a distinctive oversized orange T-shirt emblazoned with an image of the iconic German-British composer, famed for his melodic operas, oratorios and organ concertos. 

Surprise: Lewis Hamilton revealed a hitherto unknown appreciation for classical music, in particular George Frideric Handel, while dining out in West Hollywood on Wednesday 

The Mercedes driver, who has previously tried his hand at singing with mixed results, added to his look with a pair of baggy, loose-fitting jeans and Nike high-top trainers. 

With temperatures steadily climbing across southern California, he rounded off his ensemble with a lilac bucket hat as he exited popular Italian restaurant Cecconi’s with a doggy-bag. 

Clearly making the most of his time away from the circuit, Lewis gave onlookers a beaming smile as he made his way towards a waiting car with the  carry-out. 

Hitting all the right notes: Happy-go-lucky Lewis, 37, wore a distinctive oversized orange T-shirt emblazoned with an image of the iconic German-British composer

Going his own way: Hamilton’s questionable style statements have arguably generated as much attention as his exploits on the grid (seen here at the Canadian Grand Prix last week)

German born Handel was especially noted for his orchestral Water Music and Music For The Royal Fireworks, while his anthem Zadok The Priest has been performed at every Royal coronation since 1727. 

The composer became a naturalised British subject the year of its first performance, and died in London aged 74 in 1759. 

While Hamilton’s talent is typically reserved for the circuit, he has been urged to retire as the seven-time champion continues to struggle this season behind the new generation of drivers.

Advice: The F1 driver has been urged to retire as the seven-time champion continues to struggle this season behind the new generation of drivers

Struggles: The Mercedes driver has not won any of his last 10 races – equalling the longest run of his career – and sits 98 points adrift of last year’s title rival Max Verstappen of Red Bull

Hamilton is sixth in the drivers’ standings nine races in, which would be the worst result of his 16-season F1 career.

The Mercedes driver has not won any of his last 10 races – equalling the longest run of his career – and sits 98 points adrift of last year’s title rival Max Verstappen of Red Bull.

And three-time champion Sir Jackie Stewart admitted he thinks the time has come for Hamilton to pursue his various other interests.

‘It’s time for him to resign,’ said Stewart, 83. ‘He’s got music, he’s got culture, he loves clothing and the rag trade would be absolutely suitable for him. 

‘I’m sure he’ll be very successful because he’s been earning a huge amount of money — rightfully so because he’s been the best of his time.’

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