Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time Formula One World Champion, has officially commenced his tenure with Scuderia Ferrari. On January 22, 2025, Hamilton took to the Fiorano Circuit, Ferrari's private test track near their Maranello headquarters, marking his inaugural drive in a Ferrari F1 car. This event is a significant milestone in Hamilton's illustrious career, as he transitions from Mercedes, where he secured six of his seven titles, to the iconic Italian team.

The day's activities were part of an "immersion programme" designed to integrate Hamilton into the Ferrari environment ahead of the 2025 season. The programme included meetings with team leaders, introductions to staff, and tours of the factory facilities. The highlight was undoubtedly Hamilton's first drive in the Ferrari SF-23, the team's 2023 model, which took place under cool and misty conditions. He departed the garage at 09:16 CET, greeted by enthusiastic Tifosi who had gathered to witness this historic moment.

Reflecting on the experience, Hamilton described it as "one of the best feelings of my life," emphasizing the special nature of driving for Ferrari—a dream he has harbored since childhood. He expressed his excitement about this new chapter and his commitment to contributing to the team's success.

In addition to his on-track activities, Hamilton is set to reunite with his former trainer, Angela Cullen, as he embarks on this new journey with Ferrari. Cullen, a New Zealand physiotherapist, played a crucial role in Hamilton's success during his time at Mercedes, and her return is anticipated to bolster his performance in the upcoming season.

Hamilton's move to Ferrari has been described as a "gut feeling," with the driver seeking a fresh challenge and the opportunity to help the team reclaim championship glory—a feat they last achieved in 2007. As he joins forces with Charles Leclerc, the racing world eagerly anticipates how this partnership will unfold in the 2025 season, which kicks off with the Australian Grand Prix in March.

This transition marks a significant shift in the Formula One landscape, as Hamilton aims to secure a record-breaking eighth world championship title with one of the sport's most storied teams.