Lewis Hamilton begins a new chapter in his illustrious Formula 1 career today as he arrives at Ferrari’s Maranello factory for the first time since his blockbuster move was announced last February.
The seven-time world champion starts his £50million-plus-a-year contract with the Italian racing giants, marking the realisation of what has been described as a lifetime’s dream.
The 40-year-old British racing icon replaces Carlos Sainz in what is widely regarded as one of F1’s most exciting transfers in history.
Hamilton’s first day will begin with meeting Ferrari staff and completing simulator work at the prestigious facility, according to the Daily Mail.
F1 news: Lewis Hamilton begins a new chapter in his illustrious Formula 1 career today as he arrives at Ferrari’s Maranello factory for the first time since his blockbuster move was announced last February
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The British driver is then scheduled to take to Ferrari’s Fiorano test track on Wednesday, weather permitting.
While Ferrari has maintained secrecy around the exact schedule, local fans are expected to gather in force for their first glimpse of Hamilton in Ferrari colours.
Testing will take place in a previous Ferrari model, most likely the 2023 car, in line with F1’s testing of previous cars (TCP) regulations.
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F1 news: Lewis Hamilton is replacing Carlos Sainz Jr at Ferrari
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The rules permit Hamilton up to 1,000km (620 miles) of in-house practice at the private test session.
While the test will be conducted privately, enthusiasts may catch glimpses of Hamilton through the trees surrounding the Fiorano track – with many expected to attend in order to catch a glimpse of their hero.
Following his initial Ferrari experience, Hamilton will continue his preparation with additional track time in Barcelona at the end of January.
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The British driver will then participate in the official Formula 1 testing in Bahrain next month, where he will get his first taste of Ferrari’s new 2025 car.
Hamilton’s competitive debut for Ferrari will come at the Australian Grand Prix on March 16, where he will race alongside his new teammate Charles Leclerc.
The move comes as Hamilton seeks an eighth world title, having won just three races since his controversial 2021 championship defeat to Max Verstappen.
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Ferrari CEO Benedetta Vigna has confirmed the preparations for Hamilton’s arrival at Maranello this week.
“Changes are always beautiful,” Vigna said.
F1 news: Lewis Hamilton has won just three races since missing out on glory to Max Verstappen back in 2021
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The Ferrari chief executive expressed confidence in the team’s readiness, stating: “We are preparing the last things. There is a lot of expectation.”
“We are ready for almost everything. It’s all in place.”
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