In a moment that will be etched into Formula 1 history, Lewis Hamilton experienced a euphoric first drive as a Ferrari driver at the team’s renowned Fiorano test track. The seven-time world champion, who made a shocking move from Mercedes to Ferrari for the 2025 season, described the experience as “one of the best feelings” of his illustrious career.
As Hamilton emerged from the garage in a vibrant yellow helmet reminiscent of his early F1 days, an air of excitement permeated the misty morning at Maranello. Eager Tifosi gathered on the Giardini overpass, catching a glimpse of their new hero as he embarked on his maiden laps in the iconic red car.
A Drive to Remember
Despite the damp conditions, Hamilton wasted no time in acclimatizing to his new machinery. Over the course of 30 laps, he pushed the SF-23 to its limits, conducting system checks and practice starts while basking in the raw emotion of the moment.
“Driving a Scuderia Ferrari HP car for the first time this morning, was one of the best feelings of my life,” Hamilton gushed. “When I started the car up and drove through that garage door, I had the biggest smile on my face. It reminded me of the very first time I tested a Formula 1 car, it was such an exciting and special moment, and here I am, almost twenty years later, feeling those emotions all over again.”
– Lewis Hamilton
Family Affair
Sharing in Hamilton’s joy were his closest family members, including his father Anthony and mother Carmen, who watched proudly from the garage. Piero Ferrari, son of the legendary Enzo Ferrari, also made an appearance to welcome the newest member of the Scuderia family.
Tifosi Passion
For Hamilton, the fervor of the Tifosi was an awe-inspiring revelation. Having witnessed their dedication from afar for years, experiencing it firsthand as a Ferrari driver left an indelible impression on the Briton.
“I already knew from the outside how passionate the Ferrari family is, from everyone in the team to the Tifosi!” Hamilton marveled. “But to now witness it firsthand as a Ferrari driver has been awe-inspiring. That passion runs through their veins and you can’t help but be energised by it.”
– Lewis Hamilton
Reunited and Ready
Alongside Hamilton was his new teammate Charles Leclerc, who completed 14 laps in the same car. The Monégasque driver appeared relaxed and eager to begin the new chapter in Ferrari’s history. Under the guidance of team principal Fred Vasseur, the duo is poised to form a formidable partnership as they strive to return Ferrari to the top step of the podium.
“Charles and Lewis did their laps in not the best weather, but they got back in the swing of things and immersed themselves in the track environment,” Vasseur commented. “It was a warm-up for the team in the garage. That was the sole purpose of today.”
– Fred Vasseur
The Journey Begins
As the fog lifted over Fiorano, so too did any lingering doubts about Hamilton’s decision to join Ferrari. With an invigorated spirit and the unwavering support of the Tifosi behind him, the stage is set for one of the most anticipated seasons in Formula 1 history.
“I’m so grateful for the love I have felt from everyone in Maranello this week, we have a lot of work to do but I can’t wait to get started,” Hamilton declared, his eyes fixed on the challenges ahead.
– Lewis Hamilton
The road to glory will undoubtedly be laden with obstacles, but with Hamilton at the wheel and the Scuderia’s unwavering determination, Ferrari fans worldwide can dare to dream once more. As the countdown to the 2025 season begins, one thing is certain: the legend of Lewis Hamilton is poised to write its most thrilling chapter yet.
