Piero Ferrari: “Lewis Hamilton has long wanted to race for us”. The vice president of Ferrari shed light on the long-standing interest Lewis Hamilton had in joining the team.

A Dream Finally Realized

Lewis Hamilton‘s first laps at Fiorano in a Ferrari marked a special moment in his career. The seven-time world champion described the experience as “one of the most beautiful moments of his life” and expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome he received both at the track and at the factory. Despite spending years as one of Ferrari’s fiercest competitors—first with McLaren and later with Mercedes—the British driver’s transition to the Scuderia appears to be off to a promising start.

Piero Ferrari’s Perspective

Speaking with journalist Pino Allievi for Autosprint, Piero Ferrari revealed that Hamilton’s move to Ferrari was the culmination of a long history of mutual interest. “Over the years, we’ve had conversations, exchanged thoughts, and even joked about it,” Ferrari shared. “Lewis expressed his desire to race for us on multiple occasions, but contractual obligations kept us on separate paths—he was committed to Mercedes, and we had our own drivers under contract. Eventually, the right opportunity presented itself, and both sides saw the opening to make it happen. That’s how we reached an agreement.”

Ferrari’s vice president also dismissed any concerns regarding Lewis Hamilton’s age as he embarks on this new challenge at 40. “Physically, he is in excellent shape, and mentally, he remains as sharp as ever. I don’t see age as a factor at all,” Ferrari stated. “His enthusiasm for this new chapter is incredible, and that level of confidence speaks volumes about his belief in what he can achieve with us.”