Lewis Hamilton Begins New Era with Ferrari in Maranello

MARANELLO, Italy — Seven-time Formula 1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton officially began his journey with Ferrari on Monday, marking a historic moment for both the driver and the iconic Italian team. Hamilton, who recently joined Ferrari after 11 seasons with Mercedes, shared his excitement on social media, calling it a “dream come true” to race in Ferrari’s signature red.

“There are some days that you know you’ll remember forever, and today, my first as a Ferrari driver, is one of those days,” Hamilton wrote. “I’ve been lucky enough to have achieved things in my career I never thought possible, but part of me has always held on to that dream of racing in red.”

Hamilton’s first day at Ferrari’s Maranello headquarters included a series of high-profile meetings and tours. He was greeted by Team Principal Fred Vasseur, CEO Benedetto Vigna, and Piero Ferrari, the son of the team’s legendary founder, Enzo Ferrari. The British driver also visited the Fiorano test track, the team’s pit garage, and Enzo Ferrari’s former office, where he observed the legacy of the Scuderia.

Ferrari confirmed that Hamilton’s “immersion programme” will continue throughout the week, with technical meetings and briefings scheduled. The team also revealed that Hamilton drove the team’s simulator for the first time, working with race engineer Riccardo Adami, who previously collaborated with Carlos Sainz and Sebastian Vettel.

Hamilton’s first on-track appearance for Ferrari is expected to take place at the Fiorano test track on Wednesday. However, Ferrari has prepared a contingency plan due to potential adverse weather conditions, with Mugello or Imola as alternative venues. Both circuits hold historical significance for Ferrari, with Mugello hosting the 2020 Tuscan Grand Prix and Imola being the current home of the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix.

“I’m incredibly grateful to John Elkann, Benedetto Vigna, Fred Vasseur, and everyone at Ferrari for their trust in me and making me part of this family,” Hamilton added. “I’m so excited to start this new era and to meet and work with a hugely talented and inspiring group of people.”

Hamilton’s move to Ferrari has been one of the most talked-about stories in motorsport, with fans eagerly anticipating his partnership with teammate Charles Leclerc. The 40-year-old driver is set to complete a rigorous pre-season schedule, including private tests at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, before Ferrari unveils its 2025 car on February 19.

The F1 2025 season will officially begin with the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne on March 16, where Hamilton will aim to start a new chapter in Ferrari’s storied history.