"Lewis Hamilton's Long-Awaited Dream Move to Ferrari Finally...

“Lewis Hamilton’s Long-Awaited Dream Move to Ferrari Finally….read more

Lewis Hamilton is at the center of a fresh claim involving Ferrari, as it’s revealed that the seven-time World Champion had expressed his desire to race for the Italian team multiple times throughout his career at Mercedes. The claim comes from Piero Ferrari, the son of legendary Ferrari founder Enzo Ferrari, who shared details about Hamilton’s connection with the team and how their paths eventually aligned. Hamilton, now preparing for his first season with Ferrari in the 2025 Formula 1 season, had long harbored a dream to join the Maranello-based team, but timing and contractual commitments had prevented the move until now.

Piero Ferrari, speaking to Italian publication Autosprint, revealed that over the years, Hamilton frequently mentioned his interest in driving for Ferrari. However, both Hamilton and the team were previously tied to other obligations, with Hamilton remaining with Mercedes and Ferrari committed to its own drivers. It wasn’t until last year that both parties saw an opportunity to begin serious negotiations, leading to the announcement of Hamilton’s switch to Ferrari.

This shift comes as a surprise to many, given Hamilton had just signed a two-year contract extension with Mercedes in 2023, which included a break clause. However, just months later, Hamilton invoked the clause to move to Ferrari, signaling the realization of his long-held ambition. Hamilton was welcomed warmly by Ferrari fans during his first public appearances, which included a test drive at Fiorano and a public speech where he revealed he had “been waiting forever” to join the team. His excitement about joining Ferrari was palpable, and he described the experience of driving the Ferrari for the first time as “one of the best feelings of my life.”

Mr. Ferrari also recalled Hamilton’s first visit to the Ferrari factory in Maranello back in 2014, which was during the purchase of a LaFerrari road car. During this visit, Hamilton spent significant time at the factory, studying how to personalize the car to his preferences. Ferrari fondly remembered their time together, saying Hamilton was “enthusiastic” and that they enjoyed a dinner at the Cavallino restaurant, where Hamilton was accompanied by his dog. It was during this visit that Ferrari learned more about Hamilton’s personality, describing him as “really pleasant” and “out of the ordinary.” Despite their rapport, Hamilton never requested to visit the racing department at that time, which Ferrari humorously acknowledged.

A key figure in the relationship between Hamilton and Ferrari is the late Niki Lauda, a two-time World Champion who played a crucial role in Hamilton’s career. Lauda, who was an instrumental part of Mercedes when Hamilton joined the team in 2012, was also deeply connected to Ferrari, having won two of his three World Championships with the team in the 1970s. Piero Ferrari revealed that he and Hamilton shared fond memories of Lauda during their dinner conversations, with both individuals acknowledging how invaluable Lauda was to both Ferrari and Hamilton. The pair reminisced about the legendary driver, who passed away in May 2019, and spoke about their shared admiration for his legacy in the sport.

In addition to their F1 discussions, Hamilton and Ferrari also spoke about various topics outside of racing, including Hamilton’s wide-ranging interests in global issues and his sensitivity toward animals. Ferrari appreciated Hamilton’s depth of knowledge beyond the world of Formula 1, noting his ability to engage in conversations that stretched beyond motorsport. This broad range of interests only strengthened the bond between the two, leading to a sense of mutual respect and understanding.

Reports last week also suggested that Hamilton paid tribute to Ferrari’s founder, Enzo Ferrari, by wearing a smart suit and overcoat during his first day at Maranello. This attire, worn outside the iconic house used as Enzo Ferrari’s office, was interpreted as a nod to the elegance and legacy of the team founder. Hamilton had reportedly been inspired by Enzo Ferrari’s style, having studied various books and films about the team’s rich history, which led him to choose an outfit in honor of the legendary figure.

Hamilton’s decision to leave Mercedes for Ferrari marks a significant shift in his career, and the collaboration between the driver and the team is expected to be a compelling new chapter in Formula 1. With Ferrari’s history, the shared memories of Lauda, and Hamilton’s long-held aspirations to drive for the team, the partnership is poised to bring a new level of excitement to both Hamilton’s career and the future of the Scuderia. As he embarks on this new journey, it’s clear that Hamilton’s respect for Ferrari and its history runs deep, making his move to Maranello one of the most talked-about transitions in recent F1 history.