Two iconic buttons on Ferrari's steering wheel disappear: changes to accommodate Lewis Hamilton
Today at 08:16 AM
Ferrari is making its new driver, Lewis Hamilton, feel at home. The first onboard footage from F1 testing in Bahrain reveals some customizations in the steering wheel layout used by the seven-time world champion. For the first time since 2015, two iconic buttons on Ferrari’s steering wheel have disappeared.
Since his arrival, Lewis Hamilton has worked closely with his engineering team to tailor the 2025 car to his needs. The most crucial component in this process is undoubtedly the steering wheel, the main interface between driver and car. As a result, the two Ferrari drivers now use different layouts, with Charles Leclerc maintaining the steering wheel design used until now.
Source: f1ingenerale
Lewis Hamilton's modifications
The first images from Bahrain immediately highlight a significant change in the button layout on car number 44. On the upper left section, the N (Neutral) button, previously the largest and easily recognizable with its bright green color, has been replaced by the CHR (Charge) button, which activates the ERS recharge mode. Hamilton also requested a modification to the lighting system, adding a dedicated green LED near the CHR button for a clear visual reference. Leclerc, in contrast, uses the rev counter LEDs to indicate this mode.
On the right side, the P (Pit Limiter) button, previously red and used to engage the speed limiter in the pit lane, has been replaced by a new command. The largest button on the right now houses the PC (Pit Confirm) button, used to confirm to the pit wall the intention to enter the pits, and is now set against a white background. The P and N buttons have been relocated further down on the steering wheel.
Source: f1ingenerale
Source: f1ingenerale
Another change requested by the British driver involves the activation of the DRS system. The DRS button has been moved to the front section of the steering wheel, just above the left-hand grip. This positioning is notably similar to the layout Lewis Hamilton used at Mercedes last season. Charles Leclerc, on the other hand, uses that button for the OK function, which confirms a setting change made via the rotary switches.
Source: f1ingenerale
In Formula 1, every detail matters, and Lewis Hamilton's pursuit of extreme personalization is a perfect example of that philosophy.
Source: f1ingenerale
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