Lewis Hamilton reveals when and where he will first drive a Ferrari F1 car

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Lewis Hamilton now confirmed at Ferrari for 2025has lifted the veil on a detail that fascinates fans of Formula 1 : his first drive in a Ferrari single-seater. Although some drivers will have the opportunity to test their new car as early as the end-of-season tests in Abu Dhabi, Hamilton has decided to postpone this historic moment. Here's what we know about this eagerly-awaited event.

An emotional start for Mercedes

As the 2024 season draws to a close, Hamilton is living out his final moments with Mercedes, a team with which he won six of his seven world titles. In recent statements made in Qatar, he expressed his nostalgia:

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"It won't be easy to leave Mercedes. But I know I'll always be part of their story."

Despite his deep-rooted ties with the Brackley team, Hamilton seems ready to take on a new challenge at the Scuderia Ferrarithe most iconic team in F1 history.

Why Hamilton won't be testing the Ferrari in Abu Dhabi

Unlike Carlos Sainz, who will be moving into his new garage as soon as the end-of-season tests begin, Lewis Hamilton chose not to take part in the Pirelli test in Abu Dhabi. A decision that may come as a surprise, but which he explains simply:

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"Fred [Vasseur] would have liked me to drive the Ferrari in Abu Dhabi, but that didn't appeal to me. I want to experience my first day at Ferrari as a special moment, in Maranello, out of sight."

This approach reflects the Briton's perfectionism and his desire to savour this symbolic passage to the full.

First test drive scheduled in Fiorano

Fiorano track. Photo Ferrari

Hamilton will take his first laps in a Ferrari at Fiorano, on the Scuderia's private test track, from mid-January 2025. The model he will drive has not yet been announced, but it is likely to be an adapted version of the SF-24 or an earlier single-seater, designed to help him acclimatize to the Ferrari world.

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This first drive will also be an opportunity for Hamilton to immerse himself in the unique environment of Maranello, to adjust his seat and familiarize himself with the technical team that will accompany him on this new adventure.

A sentimental choice?

Hamilton expressed another reason behind his choice not to rush to Abu Dhabi:

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"Even if I had asked, I don't think Mercedes would have allowed me to drive the Ferrari while my contract was still running. But honestly, I didn't want to. I want to start this new adventure by taking my time."

This decision, while technically risky, shows the importance he attaches to his smooth departure from Mercedes and his carefully orchestrated move to Ferrari.

A new era for Ferrari

With Charles Leclerc as team-mate and Frédéric Vasseur at the helm, Hamilton's arrival marks a turning point for Ferrari. The objective is clear: end a long period without a world title (which is still possible in 2024), drawing on the experience of a legendary champion and the energy of a team ready to meet the challenges of the new 2026 regulations.

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Hamilton sees this transition as a childhood dream come true. Despite 11 years with Mercedes, he has never crossed the threshold of the Ferrari factory. But in January, he will finally be able to discover the secrets of Maranello.

Towards a historic 2025 season?

If expectations are high, Hamilton has already warned that a start to the season without testing could complicate his first races in red. However, the chemistry between him, Vasseur and the Italian team could soon bear fruit.

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Lewis Hamilton's decision to postpone his first drive is not just a preparation for the upcoming season: writes a new chapter in the history of Ferrari and Formula 1. From now on, fans will only have one question on their minds: will this collaboration be as fruitful as announced? The answer will be in 2025.

10 Comments

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  1. I hope he and Leclerc get along well. I can't wait for the 2025 season. Glory to Ferrari for which I have always been a fan. I've always dreamed of attending a grand prix in the FERRARI stnd but I can't afford it. LONG LIVE SCUDERIA FERRARI.
    MARC TURLET

    • I also hope they both get along with each other,fighting with each other won't be good for them or the team. Charles claimed he and Carlos got along well,but I'm not so sure about that,especially they way they raced each other.

      This is the way Ferrari should try to achieve next year in 2025.
      (1) Allow Lewis to help Charles win his first Championship,seeing he's already got 7. This would motivate Charles to help Lewis to get his 8th.
      (2)2026 Charles will help Lewis to get his 8th Championship.
      (3)2027 Charles gets his second Championship.
      (4)2028 Lewis gets his 9th.
      (5)2029 Charles gets his 3rd Championship.
      (6)2030 Lewis gets his 10th Championship and resigns racing for good.

      Well I am allowed to dream right?? LOL

  2. I hope Lewis and Charles get along well. They can wreak havoc. I've always been a Ferrari fan. I dream of a grand prix in the SCUDERIA pit. I DREAM OF IT. I hope FERRARI becomes world champion, driver and manufacturer. Bravo to you and good luck for the last race in 2024 and for the 2025 season.

  3. Sono felicissima che Lewis sia in Ferrari nel 2025, credo fermamente che sarà un occasione d'oro. Per ottenere il suo ottavo titolo.

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