Lewis Hamilton speaks for first time after officially joining Ferrari - 'Couldn't be happier'
Paul Coyte discusses the latest sports headlines January 20 2025
Lewis Hamilton marked his first official day as a Ferrari driver today with his arrival at the team's renowned Maranello base in northern Italy.
The seven-time world champion was welcomed by Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur and chief executive Benedetto Vigna at the iconic facility.
The British driver's historic move comes after 12 seasons and six drivers' championships with Mercedes, as he begins preparations for the upcoming Formula One season with his new team.
Hamilton shared his emotions about the momentous day on social media, posting a picture of himself with a Ferrari car.
Lewis Hamilton has said it is a dream come true after joining Ferrari
"There are some days that you know you'll remember forever and today, my first as a Ferrari driver, is one of those days," Hamilton wrote on Instagram.
"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 couldn't be happier to realise that dream today."
Hamilton will spend his initial days getting acquainted with the factory and team whilst working in Ferrari's simulator with the 2025 car.
The 40-year-old is expected to test drive a 2023 Ferrari at the team's Fiorano circuit later this week.
JUST IN: Wayne Rooney takes on new sport after Plymouth sacking as Coleen Rooney reveals all
Further testing sessions are planned at Barcelona before the launch of Ferrari's 2025 challenger.
This marks the first time in Hamilton's 18-year Formula One career that he will drive a car not powered by a Mercedes engine.
READ MORE:Shaun Murphy makes emotional admission after beating Kyren Wilson to win Masters
Lewis Hamilton has left Mercedes to join Ferrari
Reuters
Hamilton will join teammate Charles Leclerc at the Formula One season launch event at London's O2 Arena on 18 February.
The following day will see Ferrari unveil their new 2025 challenger to the world.
Team principal Vasseur acknowledged Hamilton faces "a challenge" getting up to speed in the limited time before the season starts.
LATEST SPORTS NEWS:
Lewis Hamilton finished seventh last season with Mercedes
Reuters
"It is not easy but he is coming with his own experience. But he is not the rookie of the year, I am not worried at all about this," Vasseur said.
Hamilton's first race in Ferrari red will come at the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne on 16 March.
The British driver enters his new chapter after finishing seventh in the drivers' championship in his final season with Mercedes.
"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," Hamilton added in his social media statement.
You may like
