In 2025, Lewis Hamilton will bid farewell to his immensely triumphant tenure with Mercedes as he embarks on a new chapter with Ferrari.
Arriving at Imola as a confirmed F1 2025 Ferrari driver, Lewis Hamilton doesn’t know if his welcome will be any different as he is still a “Mercedes driver right now”.
After almost two decades of being one of Ferrari’s primary antagonists, and thrice beating one of the Scuderia’s drivers to the World title to add to his tally of seven, Lewis Hamilton will be racing in red next season.
Lewis Hamilton: I think I’ve always had good support here in the past
Additional reporting by Thomas Maher
In a stunning revelation made in February, the British driver declared that his tenure with Mercedes would come to an end after this season’s championship. This surprising announcement was accompanied by the news that he had secured a multi-year contract with Ferrari, where he would take the place of Carlos Sainz.
The Tifosi, loyal fans of Ferrari, find themselves in a surprising turn of events as they transition from criticizing the British driver to embracing and applauding him.
The U-turn may commence as early as the upcoming Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, which is the first of Italy’s two races.
During Thursday’s media day, Hamilton was questioned about the reception he received. Speaking to various outlets, including PlanetF1.com, he stated, “Currently, I am a driver for Mercedes.”
“I have a deep affection for Italy and thoroughly enjoy being here. Once you arrive, make sure to indulge in the delectable cuisine it offers.”
However, I don’t really have any specific emotions or expectations at the moment. Historically, I have always received strong support here. As you are aware, racing is immensely popular in this area.”
“I’m certainly looking forward to seeing people, although I’m unsure of what to anticipate and it could be a similar experience.”
“He added that he arrived at the track today with the same enthusiasm as any other weekend, and he is simply excited to start racing.”
“I anticipate a large gathering as usual, with the passionate Tifosi showing up in full force. I’m excited to witness their presence, although I haven’t had much opportunity to interact with them due to time constraints.”
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Lewis Hamilton advised to ‘open up a bit more’
Karun Chandhok, a former F1 driver, has advised Hamilton to adopt a more “open” approach with the Tifosi, as he believes it is crucial in winning their support.
He told Sky Sports that Italians, the reason we adore them and their love for Formula One, is due to their immense passion. They are truly a passionate group of people.
If Lewis, whom we are acquainted with as someone who openly expresses his emotions, becomes a bit more open with them during the weekend, I am confident that they will eagerly embrace every chance to include him.
In pursuit of a historic eighth World title, Hamilton will join Ferrari with the intention of surpassing the remarkable record set by the legendary Michael Schumacher.
Despite being warned that he cannot accomplish it single-handedly, Chandhok mentioned how Ferrari formed the formidable ‘Dream Team’ consisting of Jean Todt, Ross Brawn, and Rory Byrne, with Schumacher being just one piece of that intricate puzzle.
He mentioned that Hamilton’s presence alone would not result in Ferrari becoming World Champions overnight.
“They need to construct the team in a similar manner as they did in the 1990s, when they centered it around Michael Schumacher. It’s important to remember that even when Michael started racing alone in 1996, it didn’t automatically turn them into World Champions.”
Fred Vasseur is truly doing an exceptional job, as all these individuals have come in to restructure the entire thing.
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