Charles Leclerc has expressed that Lewis Hamilton’s maiden outing in a Ferrari Formula 1 car has created an “excitement surrounding the team” heading into 2025.
Hamilton conducted his much-anticipated debut run with Ferrari on Wednesday as he completed 30 laps in the team’s 2023 car, the SF-23, around the Fiorano test track.
Hamilton’s appearance attracted thousands to the Maranello region, with spectators aligned along the vantage points on the outskirts to watch the landmark occasion.
Having logged 89 kilometres in a Ferrari, Hamilton experienced what he described as an “awe-inspiring” moment when he headed out to meet the Tifosi during his lunch break.
“I already knew from the outside how passionate the Ferrari family is, from everyone in the team to the Tifosi!” Hamilton said in Ferrari’s press release.
“But to now witness it firsthand as a Ferrari driver has been awe-inspiring.
“That passion runs through their veins and you can’t help but be energised by it.
“I’m so grateful for the love I have felt from everyone in Maranello this week, we have a lot of work to do but I can’t wait to get started.”
According to Leclerc, the enthusiasm isn’t limited to the outside as he admitted his team-mate’s new venture has added to the buzz around Ferrari this season.
“The first day back in the car is always a great feeling after the holidays,” said Leclerc.
“It’s good to be back on track, to see that so many fans came out to watch us.
“Feeling all this excitement surrounding the team is very motivating.”
Leclerc hints at more Ferrari outings
Leclerc, who was set to run an alternative programme to Hamilton, had a less productive run as drizzle restricted him to a meagre 14 laps in cold and wet conditions.
However, the Monegasque has appeared to reveal that the Italian marque will be back in track action next week as its preparations towards the upcoming campaign continue.
“It was a good day, even though it was raining a little bit when I was driving.
“Of course it was nice to be able to see Lewis driving his first laps in a Ferrari, which was a special moment for the team and for him.
“Now I’m looking forward to being back in the car next week and to really start working hard for the coming season.”
Ferrari is expected to give Hamilton time in a previous car at a conventional circuit in Barcelona prior to his debut run in his 2025 machine in pre-season testing next month.
Hamilton will be entitled to 1000km in previous cars amid a change to the rules on the Testing of Previous Cars (TPC) scheme to restrict the amount of in-season running.
The seven-time F1 champion has used up 89km with his inaugural laps at Fiorano, which gave him a chance to adapt to the Ferrari engine and the squad’s processes.
READ MORE – Lewis Hamilton reacts to his debut Ferrari F1 outing at Fiorano
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