Formula 1 fans worldwide are eagerly anticipating the moment when Lewis Hamilton is officially seen as a Ferrari driver. The seven-time world champion is joining the prestigious Maranello team, following in the footsteps of iconic figures such as Michael Schumacher, Fernando Alonso, and Sebastian Vettel.
Hamilton made the groundbreaking announcement about his move to Ferrari before he even entered the W15 for the 2024 season. After spending an impressive 12 years with Mercedes, where he secured six of his seven championships, the Briton is leaving the Silver Arrows. His partnership with Mercedes shattered numerous records, including making him the most successful driver in F1 history in terms of wins, podiums, and pole positions.
As Hamilton embarks on his new chapter with Ferrari, he will be aiming to secure a historic eighth World Championship. Having signed a contract through 2026, with an option for an additional year, this move is expected to be Hamilton's final one in F1.
First Public Appearance as a Ferrari Driver
The anticipation surrounding Hamilton's debut as a Ferrari driver is palpable. The iconic F175 event, where Ferrari will unveil their 2025 challengers, is scheduled for February 18th, and it will be Hamilton's first public appearance with the team. However, before this highly awaited event, Hamilton will participate in a test at Ferrari's Fiorano Circuit in January to begin his integration with the team.
Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur has stated that the test will not carry the same fanfare that Michael Schumacher’s debut did. Ferrari's focus will be entirely on preparing Hamilton for the upcoming 2025 season. Despite this, the streets around Maranello are expected to be flooded with Ferrari fans eager to catch a glimpse of the seven-time champion in his new red car.
Hamilton's First Meeting with Ferrari
Hamilton's introduction to Ferrari will not involve a press conference before his public appearance in February. According to reports from sport.de, the 40-year-old is expected to arrive in Maranello on January 20th to get acquainted with his new team and the environment before his big reveal. Fans and media outlets will have to wait until the F175 event at the O2 Arena in London to see Hamilton formally introduced in Ferrari red.
Can Hamilton Revive Ferrari’s Fortunes?
While the excitement surrounding Hamilton's move to Ferrari is undeniable, it comes at a time when the team has been struggling. In 2024, Hamilton endured his worst season to date, finishing seventh in the championship standings. Despite victories at Silverstone and Spa – his first wins since 2021 – Hamilton was decisively outperformed by his teammate George Russell.
As Hamilton prepares to take on the challenge at Ferrari, he will be hoping to turn the team's fortunes around and fight for his eighth world title. The upcoming season will be critical, as the pressure mounts for Hamilton to perform and help elevate Ferrari back to the top of Formula 1.