The second when Lewis Hamilton lastly steps behind the wheel of a Ferrari Formulation 1 automotive is quick approaching. The seven-time world champion’s transfer to the Maranello group formally grew to become a actuality initially of the brand new yr.
This marks simply the second time in Hamilton’s illustrious profession that he has switched groups. The 39-year-old made his transition to Mercedes from McLaren in 2013, a transfer that was comparatively clean as a result of McLaren’s longstanding reference to Mercedes as their engine provider. Nonetheless, his transfer to Ferrari presents a totally totally different problem—one which entails acclimating to a brand new setting, language, and nation.
Ferrari’s main purpose will probably be to combine Hamilton into the group swiftly, making certain he’s absolutely ready for his or her title bid in 2025. Earlier than finalizing his contract, Hamilton made a secret go to to Maranello, very like Carlos Sainz did earlier than his change from McLaren in 2021.
Ferrari has already deliberate two checks for Hamilton in January, previous to the pre-season testing in Bahrain. The primary of those checks will happen at their non-public Fiorano circuit, although they might relocate to Mugello or Imola relying on climate situations. Moreover, Hamilton may participate in a 2026 Pirelli tire take a look at, which might function a chance for him to familiarize himself with the technical facets of the brand new 2026 laws.
Emerson Fittipaldi has weighed in on the matter, stating that the complete nation of Italy is about to “cease” to witness Hamilton’s debut with Ferrari. The Brazilian, a two-time F1 champion, predicted that every one eyes will probably be on Hamilton as he takes to the monitor within the iconic pink automotive. Whereas Ferrari is aiming to keep away from turning this debut right into a “media circus” with a purpose to reduce distractions for Hamilton, Fittipaldi’s feedback counsel that the eye surrounding his first drive will probably be nothing in need of monumental.
Emerson Fittipaldi acknowledged that Ferrari was making a robust comeback, including that it was straightforward to think about Lewis Hamilton driving for Ferrari subsequent yr. He predicted that the complete nation of Italy would cease on Sunday to look at Hamilton drive the Ferrari.
Fittipaldi additionally famous Hamilton’s motivation, saying that becoming a member of Ferrari introduced a serious problem. He talked about that each driver desires of racing for Ferrari, and Hamilton’s transfer was a major step in his profession. Fittipaldi emphasised that at this level in Lewis Hamilton’s life, having the ability to be part of Ferrari below the management of Frederic Vasseur, who had beforehand been his group principal in Formulation 3 and Formulation 2, was a robust mixture. He advised that the reunion with Vasseur would supply an thrilling problem.
Wanting forward, the two-time F1 champion expressed his anticipation for the subsequent season, predicting that it could be an exciting time for Hamilton and for Formulation 1, particularly because the competitors was changing into more and more fierce.
What Sebastian Vettel has shared about Lewis Hamilton’s new race engineer, Riccardo Adami, gives worthwhile perception into what Hamilton can count on in his transition to Ferrari. As beforehand talked about, Hamilton might want to modify to a brand new group setting and personnel after Peter Bonnington, his longtime race engineer and shut pal at Mercedes, selected to not observe him to Ferrari, ending a 12-year partnership.
Adjusting to new environment and constructing relationships with unfamiliar group members will probably be a difficult course of for Hamilton. Nonetheless, it appears the seven-time world champion is already considerably accustomed to his 2025 colleagues. Hamilton was seen greeting Ferrari mechanics in Italian throughout his look on the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, signaling his intention to immerse himself within the new group tradition.
Hamilton’s race engineer at Ferrari is about to be Riccardo Adami, an skilled determine within the paddock who has labored with each Sebastian Vettel and Carlos Sainz. The Italian’s in depth background in Formulation 1, mixed together with his familiarity with Ferrari’s interior workings, positions him as a worthwhile asset for Hamilton as he embarks on this new chapter.
Hamilton has already reached out to Vettel, searching for his opinion on Adami and the way greatest to kind a robust working relationship. Vettel’s optimistic suggestions and excessive regard for Adami, significantly his deep-rooted connection to Ferrari, will undoubtedly provide Hamilton some reassurance as he appears to make his transfer to Maranello a profitable one.
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