Lewis Hamilton’s first check with Ferrari is shaping as much as be the centerpiece of the F1 low season, capturing the highlight in a approach few occasions can. For the reason that beautiful announcement final February, the world of motorsport has been eagerly awaiting this historic second.
Because the mud settles on the 2024 F1 season, important adjustments have already unfolded. Crimson Bull confirmed Sergio Perez’s departure, with Liam Lawson moving into the principle workforce, whereas Isack Hadjar secured the ultimate Racing Bulls seat. In only a few weeks, all ten groups and twenty drivers will converge in London for the revealing of the F175. But, regardless of the flurry of exercise, it’s Hamilton’s inaugural run in Ferrari pink that guarantees to dominate headlines.
This union between F1’s most embellished driver and its most legendary workforce is nothing wanting a industrial goldmine for Liberty Media, the game’s rights holder. The pairing not solely stirs pleasure amongst followers but in addition reinvigorates one of many sport’s most iconic narratives.
Whereas Lewis Hamilton gained’t get intensive observe time with the 2025 Ferrari till the pre-season assessments in Bahrain in late February, he can nonetheless rack up essential mileage beforehand. F1 laws allow groups to privately check automobiles which are a minimum of two years outdated, permitting Hamilton to familiarize himself with Ferrari’s operations, procedures, and controls utilizing the 2022 or 2023 mannequin.
Confusion over Lewis Hamilton’s Ferrari debut timeline
Early stories prompt Lewis Hamilton’s first Ferrari outing was scheduled for January 21, or January 22 as a contingency for poor climate. Nonetheless, talking on *The Race F1 Podcast*, journalist Jonathan Noble clarified that these claims have been inaccurate.
Ferrari has since dismissed the rumored timeline however stays tight-lipped about specifics. Staff Principal Fred Vasseur has indicated that Lewis Hamilton’s debut gained’t be accompanied by the identical fanfare that greeted Michael Schumacher’s arrival years in the past, because the workforce goals to maintain the give attention to preparation and efficiency.
As an alternative of setting a set date, Ferrari has opted for a versatile “window” throughout which Lewis Hamilton might take to the Fiorano circuit. This implies his first run in a Ferrari might happen as early as this weekend, including an air of anticipation to the proceedings.
Moreover, Lewis Hamilton is predicted to take part in a Pirelli tyre check in Barcelona. Maximizing his winter observe time is essential for constructing his confidence with the automotive and processes, giving him one of the best likelihood to hit the bottom operating and problem Charles Leclerc from the beginning of the 2025 Formulation 1 season.
Journalist Jonathan Noble defined that whereas dates resembling January 21 and 22 had been circulating, he had been knowledgeable these weren’t correct. He famous that Ferrari had established a testing window probably starting across the weekend of January 19.
Noble prompt that Ferrari’s plan entails Lewis Hamilton arriving in Maranello within the latter half of January, with potential dates being January 17, 18, or 19. A Fiorano check might happen anytime between January 18 and 22, relying on climate situations. The motorsport journalist emphasised that snow or unfavorable climate would delay the run, as Ferrari would wish clear situations. The workforce reportedly intends to present Hamilton two days at Fiorano to familiarize himself with the automotive, workforce operations, and controls.
The Transformation Nico Rosberg Predicts for Lewis Hamilton Following His Transfer to Ferrari
Nico Rosberg’s retirement on the finish of the 2016 season left the Formulation 1 world in shock, particularly as he walked away from the game as a reigning champion. In line with Bradley Lord, communications chief at Mercedes’ Brackley headquarters, Hamilton’s exit from the workforce mirrors Rosberg’s sudden determination.
Given the circumstances surrounding his departure, it appeared virtually inevitable that Hamilton would face difficulties within the following season. His determination to depart Mercedes earlier than the beginning of the yr undoubtedly affected his efficiency, culminating in his first-ever end exterior the highest six on the planet championship standings.
Nonetheless, this season of battle might quickly be overshadowed by a recent chapter in Hamilton’s profession. If he manages to land a podium end and even safe victory in his first race with Ferrari in Australia, all discuss of his dip in type might rapidly fade from reminiscence. Rosberg believes that this variation of groups will ignite a renewed sense of “ardour” in Hamilton, one thing that he believes will return to full pressure following this invigorating shift to Ferrari.