Lewis Hamilton's warm greeting to Ferrari team members signals he feels 'at home' already
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The dawn of the new year officially marks the beginning of Lewis Hamilton’s much-anticipated chapter at Ferrari.
Hamilton, a seven-time world champion, announced his move to the Maranello-based team in February 2024 before embarking on a final campaign with Mercedes. That season proved to be one of the most challenging of his career, with Lewis Hamilton finishing seventh in the drivers’ standings—the lowest position he has ever recorded. Despite the struggles, his tenure with Mercedes will forever be remembered as one of Formula 1’s greatest driver-team partnerships. Winning six of his seven titles with the Silver Arrows and becoming the sport’s all-time winningest driver, Hamilton's departure from Brackley was both emotional and historic.
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff bid farewell to Hamilton during an emotional send-off at the team’s headquarters, marking the end of an era as Hamilton prepared for the transition to Ferrari.
Touted as one of the most significant driver transfers in Formula 1 history, Hamilton’s debut in Ferrari red is eagerly awaited. The team has planned a private test session for the 39-year-old at the Fiorano Circuit this January, with backup locations prepared in case weather conditions disrupt the event. Ferrari aims to keep the session low-profile, focused solely on acclimating Hamilton to the car and his new environment, minimizing distractions ahead of the 2025 season.
Lewis Hamilton Bonds with Ferrari Mechanics Ahead of Debut
Hamilton has reconnected with Frederic Vasseur, Ferrari’s team principal, with whom he collaborated during his junior career in GP2. The Briton will partner with Charles Leclerc, one of the most formidable competitors on the grid, ensuring strong intra-team rivalry.
The transition to Ferrari was not sudden; the British driver had discreet meetings with the team, including private visits to Maranello, even before the move was publicly confirmed. Reports suggest the 39-year-old is already settling into his new surroundings. According to the Italian daily newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport*, the seven-time Formula 1 world champion feels “at home” at Ferrari, a sentiment reinforced during the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix weekend when he greeted his new mechanics in Italian.
The report claims Hamilton's connection with Ferrari has been growing since he signed his contract in early 2024. His Italian greeting at the Yas Marina Circuit symbolized his commitment to integrating himself into the team's culture. Hamilton is reportedly eager to familiarize himself with the faces, processes, and secrets of the Ferrari factory as he gears up for what is likely his last opportunity to secure a record-breaking eighth world championship.
Lewis Hamilton's Ferrari Future and the Rise of Oliver Bearman
Lewis Hamilton has signed a lucrative £39 million-per-year contract with Ferrari, running through 2026, with an option to extend for an additional season. While the move has ignited excitement, it has also raised questions about whether Lewis Hamilton can return to his best form after a difficult 2024 season.
Last year, Lewis Hamilton struggled with qualifying pace, frequently being outperformed by teammate George Russell and suffering four Q1 eliminations. These issues have sparked concern about how he will fare against Leclerc, who is renowned for his exceptional one-lap speed.
As the British driver approaches the twilight of his career at 40, the Maranello team’s long-term plans are becoming evident. The team is reportedly eyeing junior driver Oliver Bearman as Lewis Hamilton's eventual successor. Ollie Bearman, currently with Haas, could earn a Ferrari seat as early as 2026 if his performance in Formula 1 continues to impress.
For now, however, all eyes are on Hamilton as he begins this pivotal chapter, hoping to lead Ferrari back to championship glory and solidify his legacy in Formula 1.
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