Lewis Hamilton has officially begun his Ferrari journey, getting behind the wheel of the team’s brand-new SF-25 for the first time during a shakedown session in Italy.

The seven-time world champion, joined by teammate Charles Leclerc, took to the track just a day after attending Formula One’s 75th-anniversary celebrations.

First Laps in the Iconic Red Machine

Ferrari returned to their home circuit on Wednesday to put their latest creation through its paces, with Leclerc taking the first laps in the highly anticipated SF-25.

Later in the afternoon, it was Hamilton’s turn to experience the power of his new ride, marking a significant milestone in his transition from Mercedes to Ferrari.

A Special Moment for Hamilton

After his session on track, Hamilton couldn’t hide his excitement about driving for the legendary Italian team.

Reflecting on the experience, he shared his enthusiasm about finally feeling the roar of the Ferrari engine firsthand.

“It’s nothing like any car I’ve driven in the last 10, 12, even 17 years,” Hamilton said.

“Feeling the vibration of that Ferrari engine for the first time—wow! That’s what really put the biggest smile on my face.”

The British star also spoke about the honor of wearing Ferrari red, something he had imagined for years.

“I’ve always watched the drivers before me in this suit, wondering how it would look on me. Now that moment is real, and I just hope I do it justice.”

A New Chapter After Mercedes

Last month, Hamilton had a brief first taste of Ferrari machinery when he took the SF-23 for a spin around the Fiorano Circuit, Ferrari’s private testing facility in northern Italy.

Fans eagerly gathered outside the track to catch a glimpse of their new hero, who is embarking on a fresh challenge with the Scuderia under a massive £50 million-a-year contract.

A Thoughtful Farewell Gift to Mercedes

Even as he begins a new era, Hamilton hasn’t forgotten his former Mercedes colleagues.

As a gesture of gratitude, he commissioned special artwork as a farewell gift for the team that helped him claim six of his seven world titles.

Renowned motorsport artist Paul Oz was tasked with creating a painting of Hamilton’s car from the 2019 Monaco Grand Prix, with prints given to all 3,000 members of the Mercedes team.

Another artist, Joel Clark, was also contacted to create a hand-cut vinyl piece titled “An Ode to Senna,” showcasing Hamilton’s victory lap at the 2021 Brazilian Grand Prix.

A New Era Begins

Hamilton’s Ferrari adventure is officially underway, and excitement is building for the season ahead.

With the SF-25 now in action, all eyes will be on the British driver as he aims to add another chapter to his legendary career—this time, in Ferrari red.

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

Share on Facebook «||» Share on Twitter «||» Share on Reddit «||» Share on LinkedIn