It’s not the first time Lewis Hamilton has driven at Fiorano, nor the first time he’s done so at the wheel of a Ferrari. But today, he did it with what he called “his” Ferrari.
The 7-time world champion participated in the filming day that Ferrari carried out at their home track, taking the opportunity to debut the SF-25, the new car that will be used for the 2025 Formula 1 World Championship.
For Hamilton, it wasn’t just another day, as he got to truly experience the passion that Ferrari generates in the fans who gathered at the fences to see him and Charles Leclerc take their first kilometers in the new Red car.
At the end of the day, the former Mercedes driver spoke to Sky Sport Italia microphones to share his first impressions of the SF-25 and, more generally, confirm what he has repeatedly stated: Ferrari is the right place at the right time for him.
Lewis, what are your first impressions from today?
“I’m really excited. I’m happy and very proud, I’m having so much fun.”
Can you tell us something about the SF-25?
“As for the car, it’s hard to say anything right now. It’s too early. We didn’t have any problems today. Charles drove in the morning, I drove in the afternoon, and this is my first real Ferrari racing car I’ve driven. It’s still hard to believe. I’m trying to enjoy every moment, being present every day with this legendary team, and I’m learning so much from everyone I can work with on the team.”
Until a few months ago, you were driving for Mercedes, and now you’ve had the chance to drive a Ferrari. Can you tell us about the differences you’ve noticed?
“Well, Ferrari is very different. From the moment you put on the suit and enter the garage, put on the helmet, and get into the car, you feel that incredible passion. It’s all exciting and thrilling. This team has an amazing history, and as a kid, it was a dream to race for Ferrari, and I still pinch myself to believe it’s really happening. I have so many expectations.”
How do you see your partnership with Charles Leclerc this year?
“Fantastic. I really enjoy working with Charles. I believe we’ve already built a good friendship. But even before joining the team, we talked a lot on and off the track. We talked a lot about music and fashion. We have a lot in common and get along well. In the working environment we’re in, it’s fantastic. I’m also enjoying understanding how he works because he has a lot of experience with the team and is well integrated. I’m doing my best to integrate and adjust to this new team, which is so exciting.”
You’ve always made the right move at the right time in your career. Do you think this could be another one?
“100%. I have no doubt or question in my mind. I’m in the right place at the right time, and it’s a huge privilege to be here, to join this team, and work with everyone to try to build and continue the great historic tradition of this team. What else can I say, every day has been exciting. Even last night, walking on that stage dressed in red was something totally new for me. Being able to meet and experience the fans is something very different when doing it as a rival or as a Ferrari driver. Starting this journey together with them and the team is something that left me speechless.”
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