Lewis Hamilton Realizes ‘Dream’ on First Official Day at Ferrari
Lewis Hamilton has realized a long-held “dream” as he embarks on a new chapter with Ferrari, marking his first official day with the team after joining from Mercedes.
The seven-time Formula One World Champion made waves last year when he announced he would leave Mercedes, where he spent 12 years, to race for Ferrari. On Monday, Hamilton visited the Ferrari factory in Maranello, Italy, where he spent much of his first day meeting colleagues and soaking in the new environment. Dressed in a sleek black suit, he also posed next to a Ferrari F40 supercar, symbolizing the start of his new journey.
Sharing his excitement on Instagram, Hamilton expressed, “There are some days that you know you’ll remember forever and today, my first as a Ferrari driver, is one of those days. I’ve been lucky enough to achieve 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 realize that dream today.”
He added, “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, who shares the record for the most F1 world titles with Michael Schumacher, began his career in 2007 with McLaren, before joining Mercedes in 2013. During his time at Mercedes, he won six of his seven world titles, becoming one of the most successful drivers in F1 history. However, after triggering a release clause in his contract last year, he decided to replace Carlos Sainz at Ferrari.
Reflecting on his time at Mercedes, Hamilton told CNN Sport last year, “We created history together. I don’t look at what I wish we did more because there’s literally no more we could’ve done and we created great bonds, great friendships.”
Now, Hamilton will partner with Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc as the team aims to capture its first driver’s world title since 2007.
Hamilton expressed his excitement about the new chapter: “I’m so excited to start this new era and to meet and work with a hugely talented and inspiring group of people, who have been so welcoming. I’m dedicated to bringing everything I have to deliver for the team, the wider organization, and the fans.”
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With the new F1 season set to begin with the Australian Grand Prix on March 16, testing will take place in Bahrain from February 26-28. The stage is set for Hamilton to make his mark in the iconic red of Ferrari.
