Lewis Hamilton describes his first laps in a Ferrari as an unforgettable experience, marking a fresh chapter in his legendary F1 career.
Lewis Hamilton stated that his first experience with a Ferrari in F1 was a unique sensation compared to the other Formula 1 cars he has driven.
The seven-time world champion, now driving Ferrari’s new SF-25 at Fiorano, had his first test in one of the team’s older chassis in January. He then had another run in Barcelona before today’s session.
“I’ve always imagined what it would be like to sit in the cockpit surrounded by red. I’ve been waiting for this for so long, so starting the car feels like an unexplored new journey. It’s the most exciting thing that has happened to me for as long as I can remember.”
A large group of Ferrari fans gathered to witness Hamilton’s first appearance in one of the team’s cars. And, of course, they were there again today.
“I knew I would see the tifosi on the bridge, and the first time, I thought, where is the bridge? What bridge are they talking about? And finally, I got through the first corner and saw them there—it was incredible to see them and be welcomed by them.”
Until this year, Hamilton had never driven a Formula 1 car powered by anything other than a Mercedes engine. He said that his first experience with Ferrari’s power unit was a special moment.
“My first experience is nothing like anything I’ve had before. Neither the car I had before nor in the last 10, 12, 17 years. It’s one of a kind. And feeling the Ferrari engine’s vibration for the first time: Wow. That, I think, is what gave me the biggest smile.”
“I’ve always seen all the drivers before me in red and wondered how it would feel for me. It’s a true honor to wear this badge and this suit.”
Hamilton added that he thought he had already “lived all my first times” in life before his first laps in the Ferrari, comparing the moment to his early Grand Prix outings.
“I’m truly aware that there are only a handful of special first times in life: the first kiss, the first date, the first day at school, the first day at work. Honestly, I thought I had experienced all my first times and that nothing would ever feel new again.”
“And since I’ve been racing for so long, even I’m surprised by how much I still love what I do. And this was so new. I remember putting on my suit, getting into the cockpit, and the excitement I felt reminded me—maybe—of the first time I stepped into a Formula 1 car when I was 21. That was 20 years ago.”
“But this time, it was different.”
The Briton also noted that the scale of Ferrari’s infrastructure was something he hadn’t fully appreciated until his first visit to the factory last month.
“The preparation leading up to this day lasted for months and months, and honestly, it was the longest wait for me—I just wanted to live this week. But every day has been so new and exciting. Meeting the team, I was blown away by the welcome and the passion of the people.”
“I’ve been around racing for so many years, and you only see a small part of Ferrari. You see the race team, but naturally, you know there’s a big team behind it.”
“But when you get there and actually see them, it’s massive. Seeing a small team of 100 people, whatever it is, on a race weekend and the passion they have—then seeing the thousands of people in the background working on the car—it’s so much bigger.”
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Hamilton on Ferrari Debut: “Unlike Anything I’ve Known” Hamilton on Ferrari Debut: “Unlike Anything I’ve Known” Hamilton on Ferrari Debut: “Unlike Anything I’ve Known”
