Lewis Hamilton Feels Revitalized at Ferrari: ‘I’m....

Lewis Hamilton Feels Revitalized at Ferrari: ‘I’m….read more

For the first time in his illustrious career, Lewis Hamilton is donning Ferrari red. After months of anticipation, his move to Ferrari is now a reality. Following Formula 1’s season launch in London and his first test in the 2025 car, Hamilton is settling into his new chapter with a renewed sense of excitement.

Ferrari holds a unique place in Formula 1 history. Regardless of a driver’s past successes, joining F1’s most iconic and successful team is an experience unlike any other. This sense of prestige and legacy played a significant role in Hamilton’s decision to leave Mercedes, a team with which he had won six of his seven world championships. Since arriving in Maranello in January, he has radiated enthusiasm, embracing the changes ahead of him.

After a difficult final season with Mercedes, where he often struggled with an underperforming car, Hamilton appears to have rediscovered his passion for the sport. He is hopeful that, with Ferrari, he has a genuine chance to chase the elusive eighth world championship that narrowly slipped from his grasp in 2021. “They’ve got absolutely every ingredient they need to win a world championship,” Hamilton said. “It’s just about putting all the pieces together.”

This move represents a major shift in Hamilton’s career. Unlike some F1 drivers who frequently switch teams, Hamilton has enjoyed a stable career, driving for just two teams—McLaren and Mercedes—since his debut in 2007. Now, at 40 years old, he is stepping into unfamiliar territory. For the first time, he will be driving a car without a Mercedes engine and racing for a non-English team. “This step is huge,” Hamilton admitted after his first Ferrari test. “It couldn’t be any bigger.”

Adjusting to his new environment has come with challenges. The Ferrari engine has a different vibration, and the car’s controls and steering wheel functions require a new approach. Hamilton has developed a newfound appreciation for drivers who have changed teams and adapted quickly. But rather than feeling overwhelmed, he is embracing the challenge. “Every day, I’m experiencing something new, which actually is really exciting,” he shared.

Part of that excitement extends beyond the car itself. Determined to integrate into Ferrari’s culture, Hamilton has been learning Italian since last year. Although all Ferrari meetings are conducted in English, he wanted to connect more with his engineers and mechanics on a personal level. His efforts paid off when he recently gave a speech in Italian at Ferrari’s factory, a moment that further strengthened his bond with the team.

Hamilton is also immersing himself in Italian culture in other ways, including his love for food. “Last week, I had three pizzas,” he admitted, laughing. While he has been mindful of his fitness and weight, he knows he can’t indulge too often.

With the new season fast approaching, Hamilton is ready to begin his Ferrari journey in earnest. His energy is unmistakable, his passion reignited, and his belief in the team’s potential unwavering. The road ahead may not be easy, but Hamilton is confident that he is exactly where he is supposed to be.