Lewis Hamilton Begins New Chapter with Ferrari: Historic First Day at Maranello
Lewis Hamilton has officially embarked on a new era in his illustrious Formula 1 career, joining Ferrari for the 2025 season after 11 successful years with Mercedes. The seven-time World Champion’s first day with the iconic team was marked by a visit to Ferrari’s headquarters in Maranello and a tour of the legendary Fiorano test track.
Ferrari, known for its reserved approach to public communication, issued a rare statement detailing Hamilton’s historic introduction to the team. The statement captured the excitement surrounding one of the most anticipated partnerships in Formula 1 history.
A Warm Welcome in Maranello
Hamilton arrived at Maranello early Monday morning and was greeted by key figures, including Ferrari CEO Benedetto Vigna, Team Principal Fred Vasseur, and Piero Ferrari, the son of Ferrari founder Enzo Ferrari. The day began at the Fiorano track, a location steeped in history and surrounded by symbols of Ferrari’s heritage. Appropriately, Hamilton was photographed with a Ferrari F40, his favorite supercar.
Against the backdrop of overcast skies reminiscent of his native Britain, Hamilton toured Enzo Ferrari’s historic office and the team’s garage, soaking in the atmosphere of his new workplace. He then returned to the Scuderia’s headquarters for a comprehensive tour, meeting department leaders and familiarizing himself with the team’s operations. Ferrari emphasized that this marked the beginning of a “daylong total immersion program” designed to integrate Hamilton into their unique culture.
Excitement for the Future
Hamilton expressed his enthusiasm in a heartfelt statement, calling his first day at Ferrari “unforgettable.” He acknowledged the significance of joining the most iconic team in motorsport and reflected on how this move fulfilled a lifelong dream of racing in the famed red car.
“Today, my first as a Scuderia Ferrari HP driver, is one of those days I’ll remember forever,” Hamilton said. “I’m incredibly grateful to John Elkann, Benedetto Vigna, Fred Vasseur, and everyone at Ferrari for their trust in me and for making me part of this family.”
The veteran driver, who boasts 103 Grand Prix wins, shared his optimism about working with Ferrari’s talented team. “I’m dedicated to bringing everything I have to deliver for the team, the wider organization, and the fans,” he added.
What Lies Ahead
Hamilton is expected to take his first laps in Ferrari machinery later this week, piloting the F1-75, the team’s 2022 car, for a preliminary test. This will mark the start of an intensive preparation period as Ferrari aims to challenge for championship glory in 2025.
With Hamilton’s arrival, Ferrari is ushering in a new chapter, and fans around the world eagerly anticipate what this historic pairing will achieve in the seasons to come.
