Lewis Hamilton sent Ferrari fans into a frenzy with helmet design on debut appearance
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Lewis Hamilton made his historic first appearance in Ferrari red today, taking to the iconic Fiorano test track in a 2023 SF-23 Formula 1 car.
The seven-time world champion emerged from Enzo Ferrari's legendary home wearing his new Ferrari racing suit and sporting a striking yellow helmet adorned with the Prancing Horse logo.
At precisely 9:16 am local time, Hamilton ventured onto the misty circuit, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his illustrious career.
The British racing legend's debut in Ferrari machinery came just days after his first visit to the team's Maranello headquarters.
Lewis Hamilton sent Ferrari fans into a frenzy on his debut
The historic moment drew approximately 1,000 passionate spectators, who had gathered on a nearby bridge despite the cold and wet conditions.
Some dedicated supporters had arrived as early as 5am to secure prime viewing positions around the circuit.
The crowd's enthusiasm was evident through a sea of Ferrari flags, whilst numerous Union Jacks proudly flew in support of Britain's most successful Formula 1 driver.
"It almost feels that this has been his team for almost his entire career," observed Sky Sports presenter Craig Slater, as fans and photographers lined the foggy circuit to witness Hamilton's maiden outing in scarlet.
Hamilton demonstrated his appreciation for the gathered supporters in a touching display of connection with his new team's faithful.
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The British champion was driven to one corner of the circuit in a black Alfa Romeo, where he emerged to greet the enthusiastic crowd.
Wearing a Ferrari red jacket, Hamilton offered a heartfelt gesture to those who had waited hours in the wet conditions, waving to the assembled fans and placing a hand to his heart.
The crowd responded with passionate chants of his name, waving their flags in approval of Ferrari's newest star driver.
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Lewis Hamilton drove a Ferrari car for the first time on Wednesday
Reuters
Hamilton's emotions were evident as he reflected on his momentous transition to Ferrari earlier this week.
"There are some days that you know you'll remember forever and today, my first as a Scuderia Ferrari driver, is one of those days," he declared.
The champion spoke of a long-held ambition finally realised: "I've been lucky enough to have achieved things in my career I never thought possible, but part of me has always held on to that dream of racing in red."
"I'm dedicated to bringing everything I have to deliver for the team, the wider organisation and the fans," Hamilton added, emphasising his commitment to his new team.
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The test at Fiorano marked a family occasion for Hamilton, with his father Anthony, stepmother Linda, and mother Carmen all present to witness the milestone.
Hamilton's testing programme utilised Ferrari's 2023 SF-23 chassis, adorned with his signature number 44 on the sidepods.
The regulations permit Hamilton to complete up to 1,000 kilometres of testing in older machinery before the season begins.
This initial outing forms part of Ferrari's preparation plan, with further tests scheduled before pre-season testing commences in Bahrain from February 26.
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