The daybreak of the brand new 12 months formally marks the start of Lewis Hamilton’s much-anticipated chapter at Ferrari.
Hamilton, a seven-time world champion, introduced his transfer to the Maranello-based group in February 2024 earlier than embarking on a remaining marketing campaign with Mercedes. That season proved to be probably the most difficult of his profession, with Lewis Hamilton ending seventh within the drivers’ standings—the bottom place he has ever recorded. Regardless of the struggles, his tenure with Mercedes will perpetually be remembered as considered one of System 1’s biggest driver-team partnerships. Successful six of his seven titles with the Silver Arrows and changing into the game’s all-time winningest driver, Hamilton’s departure from Brackley was each emotional and historic.
Mercedes group principal Toto Wolff bid farewell to Hamilton throughout an emotional send-off on the group’s headquarters, marking the top of an period as Hamilton ready for the transition to Ferrari.
Touted as probably the most important driver transfers in System 1 historical past, Hamilton’s debut in Ferrari crimson is eagerly awaited. The group has deliberate a non-public take a look at session for the 39-year-old on the Fiorano Circuit this January, with backup places ready in case climate situations disrupt the occasion. Ferrari goals to maintain the session low-profile, targeted solely on acclimating Hamilton to the automobile and his new setting, minimizing distractions forward of the 2025 season.
Lewis Hamilton Bonds with Ferrari Mechanics Forward of Debut
Hamilton has reconnected with Frederic Vasseur, Ferrari’s group principal, with whom he collaborated throughout his junior profession in GP2. The Briton will associate with Charles Leclerc, probably the most formidable opponents on the grid, guaranteeing robust intra-team rivalry.
The transition to Ferrari was not sudden; the British driver had discreet conferences with the group, together with personal visits to Maranello, even earlier than the transfer was publicly confirmed. Studies counsel the 39-year-old is already settling into his new environment. In line with the Italian day by day newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport*, the seven-time System 1 world champion feels “at house” at Ferrari, a sentiment strengthened through the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix weekend when he greeted his new mechanics in Italian.
The report claims Hamilton’s reference to Ferrari has been rising since he signed his contract in early 2024. His Italian greeting on the Yas Marina Circuit symbolized his dedication to integrating himself into the group’s tradition. Hamilton is reportedly desirous to familiarize himself with the faces, processes, and secrets and techniques of the Ferrari manufacturing facility as he gears up for what is probably going his final alternative to safe a record-breaking eighth world championship.
Lewis Hamilton’s Ferrari Future and the Rise of Oliver Bearman
Lewis Hamilton has signed a profitable £39 million-per-year contract with Ferrari, working by 2026, with an possibility to increase for an extra season. Whereas the transfer has ignited pleasure, it has additionally raised questions on whether or not Lewis Hamilton can return to his finest type after a tough 2024 season.
Final 12 months, Lewis Hamilton struggled with qualifying tempo, ceaselessly being outperformed by teammate George Russell and struggling 4 Q1 eliminations. These points have sparked concern about how he’ll fare in opposition to Leclerc, who’s famend for his distinctive one-lap pace.
Because the British driver approaches the twilight of his profession at 40, the Maranello group’s long-term plans have gotten evident. The group is reportedly eyeing junior driver Oliver Bearman as Lewis Hamilton’s eventual successor. Ollie Bearman, presently with Haas, may earn a Ferrari seat as early as 2026 if his efficiency in System 1 continues to impress.
For now, nevertheless, all eyes are on Hamilton as he begins this pivotal chapter, hoping to guide Ferrari again to championship glory and solidify his legacy in System 1.
Purchase official Ferrari F1 merchandise!
Let different Scuderia Followers learn about us
