Midnight ushered in the year 2025, a key date for the upcoming Formula 1 season and a moment that will go down in motorsport history. Lewis Hamilton, a seven-time world champion, has officially joined Ferrari, ending his 12-year partnership with Mercedes.
After the final Grand Prix in Abu Dhabi, where he delivered a spectacular comeback, Hamilton had to wait before getting back on track. His contract with the Stuttgart-based team kept him tied to Mercedes until the end of 2024, preventing him from testing any Maranello cars.
Ferrari’s Announcement
On February 1, 2024, the news of the year broke: Lewis Hamilton signed a multi-year contract with Ferrari. One of the most successful drivers in F1 history, with seven championships like Michael Schumacher, joined Maranello to bring the Scuderia back to its rightful place.
From the outset, public opinion has been divided. On one side are those who welcomed the news, considering Ferrari’s lineup the best among all ten teams. On the other are the skeptics, who see Frederic Vasseur’s decision as purely a marketing move.
Ferrari-Hamilton: A Dream Come True
With the signing of the contract, a lifelong dream became reality. Hamilton has never hidden his desire to race for Ferrari, one of the most iconic teams in motorsport.
“It’s no secret—I’ve always been a Ferrari fan. I have Maranello cars at home that I adore; I love them. Of course, when you’re in F1 and see certain things, it can change your perspective,” Lewis Hamilton said.
“Ferrari remains an incredible brand. When you come to Italy and see the fans, you understand why Ferrari has so much allure. It has fans worldwide, which makes it so important for Formula 1. I hope, before my career ends, I can fight with Ferrari,” he told Sky in 2020.
First Track Appearance
The anticipation for Lewis Hamilton’s first laps in a Ferrari is palpable, but fans will have to wait a few weeks. One of the first scheduled dates is between January 21 and 25, when Lewis Hamilton will drive the 2022 car, the F1-75, at Fiorano.
Following this initial test, he will return to Fiorano on February 19 for the official unveiling of Project 677. After the launch, both Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc will complete their first laps in the new car. Finally, before the season begins, official testing will take place in Bahrain from February 26 to 28, providing the first opportunity to compare Maranello’s car against its main rivals.
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