IN PICTURES – Lewis Hamilton’s first day at Ferrari

The dreams and expectations of many have finally come true. This Monday, January 20, will be a milestone for fans and the Scuderia, since it was Lewis Hamilton’s first visit to Maranello as a Ferrari driver. The Briton, officially a Ferrari driver since January 1, 2025, visited Emilia-Romagna for the first time and was welcomed by John Elkann, president of Ferrari, Benedetto Vigna, general director of the brand, and Frédéric Vasseur, director principal of Scuderia Ferrari.

On site, the seven-time world champion was able to visit the facilities and factories of Maranello and greet the Scuderia employees, all with smiles on their faces. After a few photo sessions – including one in front of Enzo Ferrari’s famous house, with a Ferrari F40 in the background – Lewis Hamilton was also able to go to the private Fiorano track, where he will make his first run in a red suit this week .

“There are days you will always remember and today, my first as a Scuderia Ferrari driver, is one of those days, the person concerned is moved. I have had the chance to achieve things in my career that I never thought possible, but a part of me has always kept this dream of one day racing in red. I couldn’t be happier to make this dream come true today. I am incredibly grateful to John Elkann (president), Benedetto Vigna, Fred Vasseur and the entire Ferrari team for the trust placed in me and for making me part of this family. »

“I am very excited to begin this new era, meeting and working with a group of extremely talented and inspiring people. I am determined to bring everything I have to offer to the team, the broader organization and the fans. Today, a new chapter in the history of this iconic team begins, and I can’t wait to see the story we will make together. »

This Tuesday, new technical meetings and briefings are planned for Lewis Hamilton, to launch his integration phase into the Italian team. As for its first run, Ferrari plans to organize a TPC either Tuesday or Wednesday at Fiorano, depending on the weather conditions.