“I definitely hope to be in the Top 10!” joked Ferrari’s new driver, Lewis Hamilton, during the Australian GP press conference. The Briton lightened the mood surrounding the Scuderia, which has been at the center of pre-season attention both on and off the track, with high expectations.
Over the winter, the media spotlight was on Maranello. Sir Lewis’ arrival in red monopolized attention, fueling great anticipation for a Ferrari openly aiming to fight for the world championship.
However, the late-February tests in Bahrain dampened those expectations, raising more doubts than certainties about the Prancing Horse. In the pre-GP press conference, Hamilton showed appreciation for the lower profile approach.
Lewis Hamilton trusts the SF-25 but keeps expectations in check
Although the SF-25 has given the seven-time world champion good impressions, the 1985-born driver remains measured. “Does the car inspire confidence? Yes, I definitely feel so. But we only spent three days in the car, so it’s hard to place ourselves among the competition. We just need to keep our heads down and focus on ourselves. I’m truly grateful and honored for this new opportunity.”
“I definitely hope to be in the Top 10,” the Briton said playfully between Carlos Sainz and Kimi Antonelli. “I don’t even remember where I finished last time here!”
Car #44 is not looking to create unnecessary expectations for the team. “What result would make me happy here in Australia? I don’t know,” he explained. “As I said, I have no expectations. I just want to finish the weekend knowing I gave it my all and performed at my best. I hope to feel comfortable in the car and to be a step ahead of the others!”
Ferrari, Lewis Hamilton has “no expectations” in Australia
The British champion’s words show ambition without arrogance. Rivals look strong, and after testing, McLaren is widely regarded as the real title favorite.
Lewis Hamilton is happy to take on the role of the chaser: “Obviously, we won’t know where we truly stand among the top teams until free practice.” Keeping a low profile and moderate expectations, the Briton remains realistic: “I hope we can fight for the Top 5. So I’d like to be somewhere in that group.” – he pointed out.
Cars will hit the track for Free Practice 1 of the Melbourne Grand Prix in the early hours of Friday. The pit lane light will turn green at 2:30 AM Central European Standard Time, officially kicking off the first session of the 2025 season. On Friday at Albert Park, teams will reveal their true performance levels for the first time as they prepare for Saturday morning’s qualifying session, scheduled for 6:00 AM Central European Standard Time.
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