Lewis Hamilton feels nostalgic at his first day with Ferrari. Image: BBC News.
(The Post News)– Lewis Hamilton described his first test in a Ferrari Formula 1 car as one of the most memorable moments of his career. The seven-time world champion took to Ferrari’s Fiorano track on Wednesday, completing 30 laps in damp, foggy conditions in the SF-23 car. This marks the beginning of his journey with the iconic Italian team.
Hamilton expressed how driving a Ferrari for the first time brought back emotions from his early days in F1. “Starting the car and driving out of the garage gave me an unforgettable smile,” he reflected, adding that the experience reminded him of his first-ever F1 test nearly two decades ago. The passionate Ferrari culture, from the team members to the devoted Tifosi, left a lasting impression on the 40-year-old, who now looks forward to contributing to the team’s legacy.
The day wasn’t just about Hamilton. Teammate Charles Leclerc also took to the track, logging 14 laps in the afternoon. Leclerc, upbeat about the upcoming season, praised the team’s atmosphere and welcomed Hamilton’s addition to the squad.
Team principal Frederic Vasseur highlighted the significance of Hamilton’s first day with Ferrari, comparing it to the excitement of a new school year. Despite the challenging weather, both drivers used the session to familiarise themselves with the car and track environment ahead of pre-season testing.
The session also allowed Hamilton to adjust to Ferrari’s engine operations and collaborate with his new race engineer, Riccardo Adami. Having driven Mercedes engines throughout his 18-year F1 career, the transition represents a fresh challenge for the veteran driver.
Hamilton will continue his immersion into the Ferrari setup with further tests, including one at Spain’s Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, as he gears up for the 2025 season, starting in March at the Australian Grand Prix.
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