Lewis Hamilton shuts down vegan restaurant chain, affecting 150 workers

By Hoang Nguyen April 26, 2025 | 10:00 pm PT

Neat Burger, the vegan restaurant chain co-founded by seven-time F1 world champion Sir Lewis Hamilton, is closing all of its branches in the U.K. after six years in operation.

The decision will affect around 150 employees, according to Daily Mail.

Neat Burger confirmed the closures but did not provide further comment. The company cited ongoing financial struggles as the reason behind the move. In 2022, it posted a loss of £7.9 million (US$10.5 million), a significant increase from the £4.7 million loss reported the previous year.

At present, only two Neat Burger outlets remain open, both located in Milan, Italy. The chain had previously shut down multiple U.K. locations as well as a store in New York.

F1 star Sir Lewis Hamilton decides to shut down vegan restaurant chain Neat Burger in the UK. Photo by Instagram/@sirlewishamilton

F1 star Sir Lewis Hamilton and an outlet of his vegan restaurant chain Neat Burger in the U.K. Photo by Instagram/@sirlewishamilton

Founded in 2019, Neat Burger was launched two years after Hamilton adopted a vegan lifestyle. The F1 star has often spoken out about the ethical and environmental issues surrounding meat consumption, particularly global warming.

Actor Leonardo DiCaprio was among the investors and co-founders of the brand, The Sun reported.

While his business faces setbacks, Hamilton's performance on the track has also seen a decline in recent seasons. His last world title came in 2020, and his best result since then has been a runner-up finish.

Most recently, Hamilton placed 7th at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix on April 20 and currently holds the same position in the overall standings for the 2025 F1 season.