Lewis Hamilton, the most successful driver in Formula One history, marked a significant transition from Mercedes to Ferrari for the 2025 season. After a celebrated 12-year stint with Mercedes, where he clinched six of his seven world titles, Hamilton took to the track in a Ferrari SF-23 for a test drive. The event unfolded at Ferrari's Fiorano test track on a cold and wet Wednesday morning, drawing the attention of approximately 1,000 spectators.
The test drive commenced at 9:16 AM local time, with Hamilton navigating the track under light fog conditions. The Ferrari, adorned with his iconic racing number 44, was driven by Hamilton who sported a new helmet design in yellow featuring a prominent Prancing Horse logo. As he completed his laps, Hamilton waved to the gathering fans, marking a new chapter in his illustrious career.
Hamilton expressed his excitement about this new venture with Ferrari.
“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
The 2025 season will see Hamilton partnering with Charles Leclerc, as Ferrari aims to end its prolonged title drought. The team has not secured a driver’s title since 2007, an achievement they hope to attain through the expertise and experience that Hamilton brings. Official preseason testing for the new season's cars is scheduled in Bahrain from February 26 to February 28, offering a glimpse into how Hamilton will integrate with his new team.
Hamilton's move to Ferrari is seen as a strategic attempt to rejuvenate the brand's dominance in Formula One racing. His decision to join Ferrari underscores the significance of the Prancing Horse team in the sport's history and his personal ambition to drive for the legendary team. The anticipation surrounding this partnership is palpable among fans and analysts alike.
