A career that has defined Formula 1 for over a decade takes a bold new turn as Lewis Hamilton steps into Ferrari’s iconic scarlet red.
On Monday, the seven-time world champion was spotted in Maranello, marking his first visit to the headquarters since signing with Ferrari last year.
Fans and insiders alike are eager to see how Hamilton’s presence will shape the future of the legendary team.
Immersing Himself in Ferrari Culture
Hamilton didn’t waste time settling into his new surroundings.
Over the weekend, he greeted Ferrari staff and familiarized himself with the simulator.
His first on-track experience with the team is scheduled for Wednesday at the Fiorano test track.
However, weather conditions could force a rescheduling.
The car he’ll be driving is expected to be the 2023 Ferrari, the latest model permitted under F1’s testing of previous cars (TPC) regulations, allowing up to 1,000 kilometers of in-house practice.
Embracing the Dream of Racing in Red
Shortly after his arrival, Hamilton shared his excitement on Instagram, reflecting on the significance of joining Ferrari.
“Some days you know you’ll remember forever,” he wrote, expressing how stepping into Ferrari felt like the culmination of a long-held dream.
He added, “Today we start a new era in the history of this iconic team, and I can’t wait to see what story we will write together.”
Countdown to the 2025 Season
With just over a month before pre-season testing begins in Bahrain on February 26, Hamilton has limited time to acclimate to his new team.
The season opener in Melbourne follows shortly after, with practice for the Australian Grand Prix starting on March 13.
Hamilton’s ambitious goal is clear: to secure his record-breaking eighth World Drivers’ Championship and Ferrari’s first Constructors’ title in nearly two decades.
A Lucrative Multi-Year Deal
Hamilton’s move to Ferrari comes with a hefty paycheck of approximately £45 million per year.
While the exact length of his contract remains under wraps, Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur hinted at a potential three-season commitment during an interview last summer.
The deal underscores Ferrari’s confidence in Hamilton’s ability to bring them back to championship glory.
Competition Among F1’s Elite
Hamilton joins the ranks of Formula 1’s highest earners, second only to reigning world champion Max Verstappen, who earns £58.9 million with Red Bull.
His new teammate, Charles Leclerc, earns £21.2 million, highlighting Ferrari’s significant investment in building a competitive team around Hamilton.
What Lies Ahead
Hamilton’s journey with Ferrari promises to be one of the most closely watched storylines in motorsport.
As he takes on this fresh challenge, fans and analysts alike are eager to see if he can rewrite history, both for himself and for the prancing horse.
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