Monza feels different for Hamilton ahead of Ferrari...

Monza feels different for Hamilton ahead of Ferrari… read more.

Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time Formula 1 world champion, approaches this weekend’s Italian Grand Prix at Monza with a mixture of excitement and sentimentality. Having secured five victories at the famous circuit, this year’s race holds particular significance, as it will be his last Italian GP driving for Mercedes before making a highly anticipated move to Ferrari next season.

Hamilton’s transition to Ferrari, announced in February, marks a significant shift in his illustrious career. The move to the iconic Italian team is expected to create waves in the Formula 1 world, but for Hamilton, the immediate focus remains on delivering a strong performance for Mercedes at Monza, a circuit he deeply cherishes.

Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Hamilton acknowledged the unique feeling accompanying this year’s Italian Grand Prix. “I’m not going to lie, it definitely does feel a little bit different,” he admitted. “Coming here always feels special, but knowing that this will be my last time racing for Mercedes at Monza makes it even more so.”

Monza holds a unique place in the hearts of F1 drivers and fans alike. Often referred to as the “Temple of Speed,” the circuit’s long straights and passionate fans create an atmosphere unlike any other. Hamilton spoke fondly of the energy the fans bring to the event, stating, “The passion here and the excitement that they really bring to this race is really not particularly matched in too many places.”

Despite the impending change in his career, Hamilton remains unsure of the reception he will receive from the notoriously loyal Ferrari fans, known as the Tifosi. Historically, Monza has been a challenging environment for non-Ferrari drivers, but Hamilton has always felt welcomed by the Italian crowd. Reflecting on past experiences, he said, “Over the last few years, I’ve had a really warm welcome every time I’ve come, to be honest.”

He recalled a particular instance when he was competing fiercely against Ferrari for the championship but still received a positive response. “There was one time when we were really fighting against Ferrari. I can’t remember what year that was, but even then, people were positive,” he reminisced.

Now, with the knowledge that he will be joining Ferrari next season, Hamilton expects the dynamics with the Italian fans to evolve. “I’ve heard ‘viene in Ferrari’ (come to Ferrari) quite a lot,” he said with a smile. “It’ll be interesting to see how that is this year. But already in Imola, for example, I got a really warm reception.”

Hamilton’s move to Ferrari marks the end of an era for Mercedes, a team with which he has achieved unprecedented success. However, Mercedes is already planning for the future, and this weekend will also be special for 18-year-old Italian driver Kimi Antonelli, who will make his Formula 1 practice debut with the team on Friday.

Antonelli, widely regarded as one of the most promising young talents in motorsport, is expected to be Hamilton’s eventual successor at Mercedes. Hamilton has been vocal in his support for Antonelli and believes the young driver has a bright future ahead of him. “I said a long time ago that I think that’s who the team should choose moving forwards,” Hamilton said. “And time will tell what they end up deciding to do.”

However, Hamilton was quick to remind people of Antonelli’s youth and the challenges that lie ahead for the teenager. “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,” Hamilton emphasized. “And yeah, I’m really excited to see and watch his progress.”

As Hamilton prepares for his final race at Monza in a Mercedes car, the weekend will undoubtedly be filled with emotion and reflection. The race will serve as both a farewell to his current team at one of F1’s most iconic circuits and a precursor to the next chapter of his career with Ferrari.

Whether or not he can secure another victory at Monza remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Lewis Hamilton’s journey in Formula 1 is far from over, and the next chapter promises to be just as thrilling as the last.