Lewis Hamilton preparing for final Italian Grand Prix ...

Lewis Hamilton preparing for final Italian Grand Prix before

Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time Formula One world champion, is heading into the Italian Grand Prix at Monza with mixed emotions as he prepares for his final race with Mercedes at this iconic venue before moving to Ferrari next season.

This weekend will be Hamilton’s last chance to add to his five previous victories at Monza while driving for Mercedes, a team with which he has achieved unparalleled success.

Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Hamilton acknowledged that this year’s Italian Grand Prix will feel different, given that it’s his last with Mercedes before joining Ferrari.

In February, Hamilton announced his highly anticipated move to Ferrari, a shift that has generated significant buzz in the Formula One community.

Known as the most successful driver in F1 history, Hamilton expressed his excitement about racing in front of the passionate Italian fans, a prospect that he finds thrilling.

“I’m not going to lie, it definitely does feel a little bit different,” Hamilton admitted when asked about his emotions going into this weekend’s race. “It always feels special when you come here.

The weather’s incredible today, and there have been huge changes made to the track.”

Hamilton highlighted the unique energy and enthusiasm that the Italian fans bring to the race, noting that their passion is rarely matched elsewhere on the F1 calendar. Monza, known as the “Temple of Speed,” is one of the oldest and most revered circuits in Formula One, and the atmosphere created by the tifosi—Ferrari’s ardent supporters—adds to the event’s prestige.

Despite the excitement, Hamilton is uncertain about the reception he will receive this weekend, given his upcoming move to Ferrari.

Over the years, he has enjoyed a warm welcome from the Monza crowd, even during intense battles with Ferrari. Reflecting on past experiences, Hamilton shared, “I don’t know what to expect. Over the last few years, I’ve had a really warm welcome every time I’ve come here, to be honest.”

Hamilton recalled a particular moment when he was fiercely competing against Ferrari, though he couldn’t pinpoint the exact year.

Even then, the atmosphere remained largely positive. “I’ve heard ‘viene in Ferrari’ (come to Ferrari) quite a lot,” he said, suggesting that many fans have long anticipated his move to the Italian team. “It’ll be interesting to see how that is this year. But already in Imola, for example, I got a really warm reception.”

This weekend is also significant for young Italian driver Kimi Antonelli, who will make his Formula One practice debut with Mercedes on Friday.

Antonelli, just 18 years old, is widely regarded as one of the sport’s brightest prospects and is expected to take over Hamilton’s seat at Mercedes once he departs. Hamilton has been a vocal supporter of Antonelli, endorsing him as the ideal candidate to lead the team in the future.

“I said a long time ago that I think that’s who the team should choose moving forwards. And time will tell what they end up deciding to do,” Hamilton stated. He emphasized the importance of allowing Antonelli the time to develop and grow, given his young age. “I think it’d be good for people to remember he is just turning 18, and he’s got a bright future ahead of him. And yeah, I’m really excited to see and watch his progress.”

Hamilton’s move to Ferrari marks a new chapter in his illustrious career, and the Italian Grand Prix at Monza will serve as a poignant moment of transition.

For Hamilton, this race is not just another stop on the F1 calendar, but a farewell to a team and a circuit that have been integral to his success. As he prepares to don the famous red of Ferrari next season, Hamilton remains focused on giving his all for Mercedes one last time at Monza, a place where he has experienced both triumph and challenge.

In summary, the Italian Grand Prix this weekend will be a memorable and emotional occasion for Lewis Hamilton. As he prepares to leave Mercedes for Ferrari, the race at Monza offers a chance to reflect on his incredible achievements with the team and to look ahead to the next phase of his career.

Whether he receives a hero’s welcome or faces a more subdued reception, Hamilton remains determined to make the most of his final race at Monza with Mercedes, while also keeping an eye on the future with Ferrari.