Lewis Hamilton forced into UK closures after losing millions

Lewis Hamilton has been forced to close the last remaining UK restaurants of his vegan burger chain after suffering millions of pounds in losses.

'Neat Burgers' was launched by the seven-time F1 champion and Hollywood royalty Leonardo DiCaprio in 2019, selling '100 per cent plant-based meals'.

Six years on from its grand opening, however, the chain has run into severe financial difficulties, resulting in the closure of its final two stores in the UK, both in London.

After previously operating in various global locations, it is understood that just two branches remain, both in Milan.  

According to British tabloid The Sun, the company lost £7.9 million in 2022, a £3.2 million increase on the year before. 

The closure of the final two UK restaurants has put around 150 jobs at risk. A company spokesperson said: "We have no further comment at this time, other than to confirm that the business has taken the difficult decision to close its UK restaurants."

Hamilton became vegan in 2017 during his first season when partnered by Valtteri Bottas at Mercedes. The Finn replaced Nico Rosberg after the German retired following his 2016 title success.

It is the latest blow to what has so far been a challenging year for the 40-year-old since joining Ferrari. Other than a sprint victory in China, Hamilton has struggled to adapt to Ferrari's SF-25, leaving him a lowly seventh in the drivers' standings.