Lewis Hamilton’s first day at Ferrari set as Formula One star is given rare honour only Michael Schumacher has received
In February 2024, the Formula 1 world wa shaken by the announcement that seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton would be leaving Mercedes after a long and successful stint with the team. The British driver signed a lucrative contract with Ferrari, reportedly worth over £40 million, marking a major shift in his illustrious career. He is set to begin this new chapter with the Prancing Horse after the conclusion of the current F1 season.
Hamilton’s departure from Mercedes will be a highly significant moment in the sport, with the 39-year-old driver joining Ferrari for what will be his next major challenge in Formula 1. However, it’s important to note that Hamilton’s official debut with Ferrari will not come immediately after the season ends. He is expected to start with the Scuderia in the new year, though the exact date of his first day with the team is being kept a closely guarded secret. According to Italian F1 commentator Carlo Vanzini, Hamilton will make the move to the iconic Ferrari headquarters in Maranello, which is also the historic home of the Ferrari founder, Enzo Ferrari. The move is significant, as only one other driver in the history of Formula 1 has been given this honor: Michael Schumacher.
Schumacher’s time with Ferrari is legendary, as he secured five consecutive World Championships during his decade-long stay with the Italian team, cementing his place as one of the sport’s greatest. Hamilton’s decision to join Ferrari mirrors Schumacher’s career path, but in a reversed order. The British driver replaced Schumacher at Mercedes ahead of the 2013 season, which allowed Hamilton to claim six of his seven World Championships with the Silver Arrows. In fact, Hamilton’s most recent title in 2024 will be his seventh and possibly his final year with Mercedes, making the upcoming move to Ferrari all the more poignant.
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