Hamilton experiences “one of the best feelings of life” driving a Ferrari for the first time

Hamilton Ferrari


Lewis Hamilton, seven-time Formula 1 world champion, began 2025 with a historic moment in his career, driving a Ferrari for the first time at the Fiorano circuit in Italy on January 22. At 40 years old, the British driver, now part of the most iconic team in motorsport, described the experience as one of the most thrilling of his life, likening it to the emotions of his first Formula 1 test. The occasion was filled with excitement and nostalgia, with Hamilton smiling widely as he exited the garage in the SF-23, the 2023 season model.

Despite challenging weather conditions, with temperatures at 6ºC and a mix of light rain and fog, Hamilton completed around 30 laps on the track, showcasing his adaptability and enthusiasm. The event drew a significant number of Ferrari fans, the passionate tifosi, who braved the cold and early hours to support the team’s newest driver.

Hamilton emphasized the unique passion of the tifosi, stating that he felt energized by the warmth and enthusiasm radiated by the fans present. For the driver, the warm welcome from the Ferrari family, both within the team and among supporters, marked the beginning of a new chapter in his career.

A return to roots and debut with Ferrari

Hamilton’s debut with Ferrari comes nearly two decades after his entry into Formula 1. He began his career in 2007 with McLaren, where he claimed his first world championship in 2008. He later moved to Mercedes in 2013, securing six additional titles and solidifying his position among the greatest names in motorsport history. Transitioning to Ferrari in 2025 marks only the second team change in his career, making the moment even more special.

On his first day of testing, Hamilton drove the SF-23, a car used by Ferrari during the 2023 season. While not the latest model, the test served as an opportunity for the Briton to familiarize himself with the style and performance of Ferrari’s machines. The choice of Fiorano’s circuit was also symbolic, as it has historically hosted many significant moments for Ferrari.

Details of the Fiorano test

Hamilton began his activities on track at approximately 9:30 a.m. local time, equivalent to 5:30 a.m. in Brazil. The session, adhering strictly to Formula 1 regulations, utilized the Testing of Previous Cars (TPC), a practice permitted with models from prior seasons.

Over roughly 30 laps, Hamilton explored the car’s potential and began understanding the team’s working dynamics. He compared the moment to the excitement of his first Formula 1 test, revealing that when he started the engine and exited the garage, he felt an explosion of joy.

The symbolism of the helmet and Senna’s legacy

To mark the occasion, Hamilton wore a special yellow helmet, reminiscent of the iconic design he used early in his career. The helmet choice was also a tribute to his idol Ayrton Senna, with whom Hamilton shares a deep passion for Formula 1. The helmet represented not just a connection to his roots but also hope for building a lasting legacy with Ferrari.

A warm welcome from the tifosi

The tifosi’s presence was a standout aspect of the event. Despite adverse conditions, about 1,000 fans gathered in Fiorano to witness the test. The fervent support of the crowd was a special moment for Hamilton, who didn’t hesitate to interact with the attendees, waving and smiling after his session on track.

Hamilton highlighted the contagious enthusiasm of the Italian fans and stated that the passion of the Ferrari family is something he has always admired from the outside. Now, as part of the team, he feels inspired and energized to deliver his best.

Preparations for the 2025 season

The 2025 season promises to be challenging and full of expectations for Ferrari. The team aims to end a title drought that dates back to 2007 when Kimi Räikkönen won the drivers’ championship. By combining Hamilton’s experience with the talent of Monegasque driver Charles Leclerc, the team hopes to field a driver lineup capable of contending for the world championship.

Ferrari’s preparations include an extensive testing program, with planned sessions at other iconic circuits such as Barcelona. These tests are critical for fine-tuning the car and ensuring the team’s competitiveness from the start of the championship.

The impact of Hamilton’s arrival at Ferrari

Hamilton’s signing with Ferrari has been one of the most talked-about moves in Formula 1 in recent years. For many, the partnership represents an opportunity to merge Ferrari’s storied history and tradition with the expertise and talent of one of the sport’s greatest drivers.

Beyond its sporting impact, Hamilton’s presence also holds commercial significance, drawing global attention to Ferrari and strengthening its brand. The team hopes to capitalize on this new phase to boost results both on and off the track.

The 2025 calendar and Hamilton’s future

The first Grand Prix of the 2025 season is scheduled for March 16 in Australia. Until then, Hamilton and Ferrari face a long journey of preparation. The Briton’s official debut with the new season’s car is highly anticipated by fans and experts alike.

With seven world titles under his belt, Hamilton is chasing an eighth championship, which would cement him as the most decorated driver in Formula 1 history. However, the driver has also emphasized his focus on teamwork and Ferrari’s long-term development.

Technical challenges and hopes for the future

Ferrari faces significant challenges in terms of reliability and performance. In recent years, the team has struggled to compete equally with rivals like Red Bull and Mercedes. Hamilton’s arrival is seen as a pivotal step in overcoming these obstacles and elevating the team’s competitive level.

In addition to his driving skills, Hamilton brings vast experience in working with engineers to optimize car performance. This expertise will be crucial for Ferrari as they seek to build a faster and more reliable machine.

Highlights of Hamilton’s Ferrari debut

  • Date: January 22, 2025
  • Location: Fiorano Circuit, Italy
  • Weather conditions: 6ºC, light rain, and fog
  • Laps completed: Approximately 30
  • Model used: SF-23, 2023 season car

Hamilton’s legacy and influence in the sport

In addition to his on-track excellence, Hamilton is known for his advocacy for social causes and efforts to promote greater diversity in motorsport. As the first black driver in Formula 1, he has broken barriers and paved the way for future generations.

The partnership with Ferrari offers an even larger platform for Hamilton to continue driving positive change in the sport. His influence extends far beyond racing, making him an inspiring figure both on and off the track.



Lewis Hamilton, seven-time Formula 1 world champion, began 2025 with a historic moment in his career, driving a Ferrari for the first time at the Fiorano circuit in Italy on January 22. At 40 years old, the British driver, now part of the most iconic team in motorsport, described the experience as one of the most thrilling of his life, likening it to the emotions of his first Formula 1 test. The occasion was filled with excitement and nostalgia, with Hamilton smiling widely as he exited the garage in the SF-23, the 2023 season model.

Despite challenging weather conditions, with temperatures at 6ºC and a mix of light rain and fog, Hamilton completed around 30 laps on the track, showcasing his adaptability and enthusiasm. The event drew a significant number of Ferrari fans, the passionate tifosi, who braved the cold and early hours to support the team’s newest driver.

Hamilton emphasized the unique passion of the tifosi, stating that he felt energized by the warmth and enthusiasm radiated by the fans present. For the driver, the warm welcome from the Ferrari family, both within the team and among supporters, marked the beginning of a new chapter in his career.

A return to roots and debut with Ferrari

Hamilton’s debut with Ferrari comes nearly two decades after his entry into Formula 1. He began his career in 2007 with McLaren, where he claimed his first world championship in 2008. He later moved to Mercedes in 2013, securing six additional titles and solidifying his position among the greatest names in motorsport history. Transitioning to Ferrari in 2025 marks only the second team change in his career, making the moment even more special.

On his first day of testing, Hamilton drove the SF-23, a car used by Ferrari during the 2023 season. While not the latest model, the test served as an opportunity for the Briton to familiarize himself with the style and performance of Ferrari’s machines. The choice of Fiorano’s circuit was also symbolic, as it has historically hosted many significant moments for Ferrari.

Details of the Fiorano test

Hamilton began his activities on track at approximately 9:30 a.m. local time, equivalent to 5:30 a.m. in Brazil. The session, adhering strictly to Formula 1 regulations, utilized the Testing of Previous Cars (TPC), a practice permitted with models from prior seasons.

Over roughly 30 laps, Hamilton explored the car’s potential and began understanding the team’s working dynamics. He compared the moment to the excitement of his first Formula 1 test, revealing that when he started the engine and exited the garage, he felt an explosion of joy.

The symbolism of the helmet and Senna’s legacy

To mark the occasion, Hamilton wore a special yellow helmet, reminiscent of the iconic design he used early in his career. The helmet choice was also a tribute to his idol Ayrton Senna, with whom Hamilton shares a deep passion for Formula 1. The helmet represented not just a connection to his roots but also hope for building a lasting legacy with Ferrari.

A warm welcome from the tifosi

The tifosi’s presence was a standout aspect of the event. Despite adverse conditions, about 1,000 fans gathered in Fiorano to witness the test. The fervent support of the crowd was a special moment for Hamilton, who didn’t hesitate to interact with the attendees, waving and smiling after his session on track.

Hamilton highlighted the contagious enthusiasm of the Italian fans and stated that the passion of the Ferrari family is something he has always admired from the outside. Now, as part of the team, he feels inspired and energized to deliver his best.

Preparations for the 2025 season

The 2025 season promises to be challenging and full of expectations for Ferrari. The team aims to end a title drought that dates back to 2007 when Kimi Räikkönen won the drivers’ championship. By combining Hamilton’s experience with the talent of Monegasque driver Charles Leclerc, the team hopes to field a driver lineup capable of contending for the world championship.

Ferrari’s preparations include an extensive testing program, with planned sessions at other iconic circuits such as Barcelona. These tests are critical for fine-tuning the car and ensuring the team’s competitiveness from the start of the championship.

The impact of Hamilton’s arrival at Ferrari

Hamilton’s signing with Ferrari has been one of the most talked-about moves in Formula 1 in recent years. For many, the partnership represents an opportunity to merge Ferrari’s storied history and tradition with the expertise and talent of one of the sport’s greatest drivers.

Beyond its sporting impact, Hamilton’s presence also holds commercial significance, drawing global attention to Ferrari and strengthening its brand. The team hopes to capitalize on this new phase to boost results both on and off the track.

The 2025 calendar and Hamilton’s future

The first Grand Prix of the 2025 season is scheduled for March 16 in Australia. Until then, Hamilton and Ferrari face a long journey of preparation. The Briton’s official debut with the new season’s car is highly anticipated by fans and experts alike.

With seven world titles under his belt, Hamilton is chasing an eighth championship, which would cement him as the most decorated driver in Formula 1 history. However, the driver has also emphasized his focus on teamwork and Ferrari’s long-term development.

Technical challenges and hopes for the future

Ferrari faces significant challenges in terms of reliability and performance. In recent years, the team has struggled to compete equally with rivals like Red Bull and Mercedes. Hamilton’s arrival is seen as a pivotal step in overcoming these obstacles and elevating the team’s competitive level.

In addition to his driving skills, Hamilton brings vast experience in working with engineers to optimize car performance. This expertise will be crucial for Ferrari as they seek to build a faster and more reliable machine.

Highlights of Hamilton’s Ferrari debut

  • Date: January 22, 2025
  • Location: Fiorano Circuit, Italy
  • Weather conditions: 6ºC, light rain, and fog
  • Laps completed: Approximately 30
  • Model used: SF-23, 2023 season car

Hamilton’s legacy and influence in the sport

In addition to his on-track excellence, Hamilton is known for his advocacy for social causes and efforts to promote greater diversity in motorsport. As the first black driver in Formula 1, he has broken barriers and paved the way for future generations.

The partnership with Ferrari offers an even larger platform for Hamilton to continue driving positive change in the sport. His influence extends far beyond racing, making him an inspiring figure both on and off the track.



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