F1: Lewis Hamilton Likely to Test Ferrari F1-75 in Early 2025

F1: Lewis Hamilton Likely to Test Ferrari F1-75 in Early 2025

Lewis Hamilton, a seven-time Formula 1 world champion, is expected to get his first taste of Ferrari machinery in early 2025.

After activating a clause that allows him to depart from Mercedes one year before the end of his contract, Hamilton will transition from the Silver Arrows, where he has spent 12 seasons, to the historic Scuderia Ferrari for the 2025 season.

Reports indicate that Hamilton’s first Ferrari test is likely to take place in January at Ferrari’s Fiorano test track, a facility located next to the team’s Maranello headquarters.

There, Hamilton will likely drive Ferrari’s F1-75 car from the 2022 season due to Formula 1’s testing regulations, which limit current car testing outside of official sessions.

The F1-75 was Ferrari’s competitive entry during the 2022 season, achieving notable results, including victories in Bahrain, Australia, the UK, and Austria, alongside 20 podium finishes over 22 races.

Though there were rumors that Hamilton might debut in a Ferrari during the 2024 post-season test in Abu Dhabi, contractual obligations with Mercedes have ruled out that possibility.

Hamilton is reportedly required to appear for Mercedes’ title sponsor, Petronas, at an event scheduled for December 10. This commitment will delay his first official Ferrari outing until after the start of the new year.

Hamilton’s switch to Ferrari marks a significant shift in his racing career. His tenure at Mercedes has seen tremendous success, and he has often been seen as a fierce competitor to Ferrari.

However, Hamilton has expressed a desire to join the Italian team, drawn to its legendary status in the sport.

Ferrari, a team with one of the longest legacies in Formula 1, has long been an object of admiration for many drivers.

Hamilton’s move is expected to bring a new dynamic to Ferrari, as he brings both experience and ambition in his pursuit of an eighth world title.

Meanwhile, Mercedes has confirmed that young Italian driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli will replace Hamilton and partner with George Russell from 2025.

Antonelli, regarded as a rising talent in the sport, has already showcased his potential through his performances in the Formula 2 championship and during F1 test outings.

Although his Formula 2 season has had some challenges, Mercedes is confident in his abilities.

They believe Antonelli’s background in the feeder series and his adaptability during F1 testing will make him a valuable asset as Mercedes continues to develop its driver lineup for future success.

With Hamilton’s high-profile transfer to Ferrari and Antonelli’s promotion to a Mercedes race seat, the 2025 season promises significant changes in the competitive landscape of Formula 1.

Fans eagerly anticipate seeing how Hamilton’s experience will contribute to Ferrari’s performance and how Antonelli will rise to the occasion as Mercedes’ newest driver.