Hamilton ‘could not be more excited’ as Ferrari career starts
Lewis Hamilton says he “could not be more excited” as he begins his new chapter at Ferrari in 2025.
The seven-time champion, whose contract with the Italian team began on January 1, expressed that he is “embracing new opportunities, staying hungry, and driving forward with purpose.”
Hamilton made his first comments since joining Ferrari in a LinkedIn post, adding, “Let’s make it one to remember.”
He wrote: “Moving to Scuderia Ferrari, there’s much to reflect on.
“To anyone considering their next move in 2025: embrace change.
“Whether you’re switching industries, learning a new skill, or taking on new challenges, remember that reinvention is powerful. Your next opportunity is always within reach.”
Hamilton also shared a photo of himself karting as a child, wearing a red helmet—Ferrari’s iconic color.
He joins Ferrari just before his 40th birthday on January 7, as teammate to Charles Leclerc, forming what many regard as the strongest driver pairing on the grid.
Hamilton is set to celebrate his 40th birthday on Tuesday.
Ferrari concluded the 2024 season strongly, narrowly missing out on beating McLaren for the constructors’ championship. Leclerc scored more points than any other driver, and Ferrari outscored all rival teams from the Dutch Grand Prix (the first race after the summer break) until the season’s end.
Hamilton has a brief yet intense period to acclimate to his new team before the season opener in Melbourne, Australia, from March 14-16.
Ferrari has provided few specifics about their plans for Hamilton, but he is scheduled to visit the factory, drive the simulator, and spend time in a 2023 car to familiarize himself with the team and the car’s operation.
The 2025 Ferrari will be unveiled on February 19, one day after the first official season launch at the O2 in London.
Official pre-season testing will take place from February 26-28 in Bahrain, with Hamilton and Leclerc sharing time in the new car equally.
Team principal Frederic Vasseur noted at Ferrari’s Christmas lunch last month that Hamilton’s first six weeks with the team would be “critical.”
“It’s not easy, but he brings his own experience,” Vasseur said. “He’s not the rookie of the year, so I’m not worried at all. We also have continuity with the previous regulations, so we have some reference. I’m not worried, but it is indeed a challenge.”
Vasseur expects a close 2025 championship battle between Ferrari, McLaren, Red Bull, and Mercedes.
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