Cigars and F1 Teams: A Totally Unnecessary but Fun Comparison

As many of you know, I’m a big Formula 1 fan. My favorites? Lewis Hamilton—and whoever manages to beat Max Verstappen. Naturally, I also love cigars, so I thought it’d be fun to draw some parallels between cigar brands and F1 teams. Both worlds are full of luxury, performance, heritage, and bold personalities. So here’s a lighthearted comparison between some iconic cigar brands and Formula 1 teams, based on their image, history, and overall vibe.

1. Ferrari = Cohiba

Why: Cohiba is Cuba’s most prestigious and iconic cigar brand—luxurious, historic, and steeped in tradition. Like Ferrari, it symbolizes excellence, heritage, and Latin passion.

Also: Certain products are impossible to allocate. Reliability issues.

Vibe: Legendary, exclusive, emotional.

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2. Mercedes-AMG = Davidoff

Why: Davidoff cigars are known for precision, quality, and refinement. That matches Mercedes, which embodies German engineering, clean luxury, and consistent dominance.

Also: You can get their products in any color you like. As long as it is white, black or grey with details in silver or gold color.

Vibe: Sleek, efficient, premium craftsmanship.

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3. Red Bull Racing = Arturo Fuente

Why: Fuente cigars are bold, popular, and appeal to both seasoned and new smokers. Like Red Bull, they're innovative, versatile, and dominate the market with creativity and consistency.

Also: If Max Verstappen were a cigar, he'd be an Opus X—ridiculously high performance, not always humble, and almost impossible to beat once lit.

Vibe: High-performance with flair and a youthful edge.

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4. McLaren = Montecristo

Why: Montecristo is a classic, recognizable name that’s gone through ups and downs. McLaren has a similar trajectory: historic greatness, a few slumps, and current resurgence.

Also: When it works it is amazing.

Vibe: Elegant, traditional, but trying to modernize.

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5. Aston Martin = Romeo y Julieta

Why: Stylish and romantic, Romeo y Julieta cigars exude British sophistication and charm, much like Aston Martin—a team (and brand) that mixes performance with aesthetic allure.

Also: Men think women love it, but they don't. Stories of trust fund kids.

Vibe: Glamorous, classic, with theatrical flair.

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6. Alpine = H. Upmann

Why: A respected brand with history but not always in the spotlight. Alpine, backed by Renault, has potential and pedigree but struggles with consistency.

Also: Vibe of greatness just around the corner—but that corner seems to keep moving.

Vibe: Subtle prestige, historical but under-the-radar.

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7. Williams = Punch

Why: Punch cigars have been around forever and still have a loyal following. Williams, one of the oldest teams, reflects the same heritage, though they’re fighting to regain relevance.

Also: Their fans would love if they could put out something... good? decent? nice?. Hopefully in the next 100 years.

Vibe: Old-school, big back in the days, nostalgic.

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8. Haas = CAO

Why: A modern, American cigar brand known for experimentation. Haas, the only American F1 team (for now!), fits this mold—newer, bolder, and still finding its place.

Also: Both Haas and CAO are lovable in their unpredictability. They may not win championships, but they’re always doing "something". Whatever that means.

Vibe: Unconventional, risk-taking, still growing.

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9. Visa Cash App RB (ex-Toro Rosso) = Alec Bradley

Why: Trendy and respected among enthusiasts, Alec Bradley cigars have a boutique feel. RB, Red Bull’s sister team, develops future stars and tries new approaches.

Also: Merchandise 75% off and you don't know who's into them.

Vibe: Youthful, flexible, full of potential.

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10. Sauber/Audi (2026) = Padron

Why: Padron cigars are Nicaraguan powerhouses—clean, strong, and deliberate. As Audi enters F1, it mirrors Padron’s reputation: serious, no-nonsense, and high-end performance.

Also: Sauber has been hanging around F1 like that quiet guy at the cigar lounge—never making a scene, but always there, puffing away with purpose.

Vibe: Precision-focused, formidable, methodical.

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