Hamilton's Historic Ferrari Journey Officially Begins at Maranello
Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton makes his long-awaited first visit to Ferrari headquarters, marking the beginning of Formula 1's most anticipated driver move.
Wiktor Forsström
F1 Journalist
History was made at Maranello on January 20th as Lewis Hamilton officially began his journey as a Scuderia Ferrari driver. Early this morning, the seven-time world champion arrived at the team's Maranello headquarters at via Enzo Ferrari 27.
The significance of the moment wasn't lost on anyone present, with Hamilton posing for photographs in the small square now named after Michael Schumacher, the only other seven-time Formula 1 world champion. Even the weather seemed to welcome the British driver, with some typically British overcast skies and drizzle greeting his arrival.
A Dream Realized
Hamilton's emotional response to his first day captured the magnitude of this career milestone. "There are some days that you know you'll remember forever and today, my first as a Scuderia Ferrari HP driver, is one of those days," Hamilton reflected. "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."
The day began with traditional "first day" photos alongside a Ferrari F40 - Hamilton's favorite supercar - before progressing to a comprehensive tour of the facilities. Team Principal Fred Vasseur and Ferrari CEO Benedetto Vigna personally guided Hamilton through his new working environment.
Total Immersion Programme
Hamilton then returned to the Scuderia HQ, where he met the management team and Piero Ferrari, before embarking on a daylong total immersion programme, visiting all the various departments to get to know the team.
This methodical approach reflects Ferrari's understanding of the significant transition Hamilton faces. After spending 18 years in the Mercedes-influenced environment at McLaren and then Mercedes, adapting to Ferrari's Italian culture and working methods represents a substantial change.
Looking Ahead
The coming weeks will be crucial as Hamilton prepares for his first taste of Ferrari machinery. Team boss Fred Vasseur has confirmed that Hamilton will have opportunities to drive in Testing of Previous Cars sessions before the official 2025 car launch on February 19th.
With the SF-25 set to break cover just one day after Formula 1's 75th anniversary season launch at London's O2 Arena, Hamilton's Ferrari story is only just beginning. The anticipation surrounding his debut in Maranello red continues to build as the sport prepares for what could be one of its most compelling seasons yet.