Lewis Hamilton took Ferrari’s 2025 Formula 1 car for its first spin on Wednesday, marking the beginning of what promises to be a historic chapter in both his career and the sport’s history. The SF-25, which is already being hailed as a milestone machine, will undoubtedly be remembered for generations to come, regardless of whether it meets the lofty expectations surrounding Hamilton’s high-profile transfer to the Maranello team.
Before Hamilton’s inaugural drive, Charles Leclerc was first to take the wheel at the Fiorano test track, located near Ferrari’s headquarters in Maranello. The scene was reminiscent of Hamilton’s first outing in January, when he tested the 2023 car, as thousands of fans turned out to witness the historic moment.
This week has been especially emotional for Hamilton, who received an overwhelming reception during the F1 75 season launch event at the O2 Arena on Tuesday. Team principal Fred Vasseur revealed that the seven-time world champion was visibly moved by the occasion, where he was greeted with the loudest cheer of the night as he walked onto the stage alongside Leclerc and Vasseur.
While there were some reports of Leclerc stopping on track in the new car, Ferrari has insisted that everything ran smoothly. The true test for the SF-25 will come in less than a week at the Bahrain pre-season testing, where both drivers will be better positioned to assess the car’s performance, with lap times being publicly revealed. The shakedown session, however, was primarily focused on resolving technical issues rather than testing overall speed.
In the meantime, Hamilton has already started to make a lasting impression at Ferrari. Having reunited with his long-time trainer Angela Cullen, Hamilton is also working closely with Loic Serra, the former Mercedes engineer now responsible for his chassis. Additionally, Jerome D’Ambrosio, the former Mercedes academy head who now serves as Ferrari’s deputy to Vasseur, spoke with admiration about Hamilton’s efforts to connect with his new colleagues. On his very first day, Hamilton made it a point to personally meet and shake hands with nearly every member of Ferrari’s 1,500-strong workforce—an “amazing” gesture that quickly won him the affection of the team.
Hamilton’s immersion into the Ferrari culture has extended beyond the factory floor. He has been living in a motorhome at the Maranello facility and has been inviting his engineers to join him for lunch as he fosters bonds with his new team. His efforts to integrate himself both on and off the track are already making a significant impact, as the Ferrari team eagerly anticipates the 2025 season with their new star driver.
Jerome D’Ambrosio mentioned that Hamilton was quite remarkable with people and that the team had already developed a strong affection for him after just the first day.
The British driver admitted that he still finds it surreal to be a Ferrari driver, a dream he has held throughout his entire career. However, he knows that at some point, the initial excitement must fade. As he pursues a record-breaking eighth world championship, he understands the need to remain focused and not let emotions cloud his performance.
The reception Hamilton received at Maranello left him ‘blown away,’ and he expressed his appreciation for the passion that radiates within the Ferrari factory. This enthusiasm is something he deeply enjoys and cherishes.
Jerome D’Ambrosio’s comments align with those made by former Ferrari driver Jean Alesi, who noted that Hamilton has made a lasting impression on everyone with his attitude. This positive response is sure to be a source of pride for Ferrari’s chairman, John Elkann, particularly given the significant investment the team has made in bringing the seven-time world champion on board.
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