Lewis Hamilton, the most successful driver in Formula One history, has embarked on a new chapter by joining Ferrari as a driver. On his first day at the legendary Ferrari headquarters in Maranello, Italy, Hamilton participated in a seat fitting and simulator session, marking the beginning of his journey with the iconic team. He will partner with Charles Leclerc as Ferrari aims to break its title drought, having last won a driver's championship in 2007.
Hamilton, who is 40 years old, takes the place of Spaniard Carlos Sainz, who has moved to Williams. Despite his age, Hamilton remains a formidable contender on the track. His decision to leave Mercedes, where he won six of his seven world championships, sent shockwaves through the racing world nearly a year ago. Now, he is eager to chase his dreams with Ferrari.
“Today we start a new era in the history of this iconic team, and I can’t wait to see what story we will write together,” – Lewis Hamilton
Last season, Hamilton managed to secure two race victories after a two-year dry spell. He finished seventh overall in the championship standings, a position uncharacteristic of his storied career. His last championship victory was in 2020, and he is determined to add another title to his impressive resume.
Hamilton's first outing at the Fiorano test track is expected on Wednesday. Official testing will commence in Bahrain from February 26-28, providing Hamilton and Ferrari with an opportunity to gauge their competitiveness ahead of the 2025 season. The season kicks off with the Australian Grand Prix scheduled for March 14-16.
“There are some days that you know you’ll remember forever, and today, my first as a Ferrari driver, is one of those days,” – Lewis Hamilton
The choice to join Ferrari fulfills a long-held aspiration for Hamilton. Despite achieving unprecedented success throughout his career, racing for Ferrari has been a dream for him.
“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. I couldn’t be happier to realise that dream today.” – Lewis Hamilton
