BREAKING: Hamilton Ferrari debut date ‘CONFIRMED… Read more
Hamilton Ferrari debut date ‘CONFIRMED
The exact date of Lewis Hamilton’s first run in a Ferrari car has been confirmed by reports from Italian media. Hamilton, who has been with Mercedes since 2013, will join Ferrari for the 2025 Formula 1 season, following the conclusion of his partnership with Mercedes after the 2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. This marks the end of a highly successful era, where Hamilton secured six world championships and 84 race victories, making him one of the sport’s most accomplished drivers. Mercedes also claimed eight constructors’ titles during their collaboration, making it the most successful driver-team combination in F1 history.
However, Hamilton’s final years with Mercedes were less fruitful. In the last three seasons, the team struggled to maintain its championship challenge, with Hamilton winning only two races in that period. This decline has prompted Hamilton to seek a fresh start with Ferrari, hoping that a change of environment can reignite his drive for an eighth world title. Ferrari, which has recently made strides toward regaining its competitive edge, has emerged as a serious contender for the championship, marking a potential turning point for Hamilton’s career.
Hamilton will team up with Charles Leclerc at Ferrari, forming a strong driver lineup. The switch to Ferrari will mean that Carlos Sainz, who has been a key part of Ferrari’s efforts in recent years, will be the driver displaced by Hamilton’s arrival. Sainz’s departure is a significant move, given his growing reputation within the team and the sport.
The exact timing of Hamilton’s first experience behind the wheel of a Ferrari car has been a subject of much speculation. Many had wondered whether Hamilton would get the chance to drive a Ferrari before the official pre-season testing in Bahrain, scheduled for February 2025. Hamilton missed out on the post-season Abu Dhabi test, as he was committed to Mercedes sponsor obligations, which delayed his first official Ferrari outing. Despite this, he has reportedly visited Ferrari’s Maranello headquarters in a private meeting, indicating that preparations for his transition to the team are already underway.
According to sources, Hamilton is expected to take part in some testing of previous Ferrari cars (TPC) in late January 2025, which will allow him to familiarize himself with Ferrari’s cars and the Fiorano circuit. Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur recently confirmed that this private testing would take place “weather permitting” in January. Further reports suggest that Hamilton will be on track for these sessions on January 21 and 22, 2025, marking the beginning of his preparation for his upcoming role at Ferrari. However, official confirmation from Ferrari is still awaited regarding these dates.
The move to Ferrari represents a bold new chapter in Hamilton’s illustrious F1 career, as he seeks to continue his pursuit of more championships, with a team that is once again competitive at the highest level.