Seven-time Formula 1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton has expressed that signing for Ferrari has been a “dream” after his first few days at the headquarters in Maranello.
The British driver arrived at the team’s base on January 20, meeting his new Italian colleagues for the first time.
In his first official photograph as a Scuderia driver, Hamilton posed in front of the former home of team founder Enzo Ferrari, whilst images of the 40-year-old wearing the iconic red racing overalls were released.
Two days later, Hamilton took to Ferrari’s privately owned racetrack, the Fiorano Circuit, in the 2023 spec version for a shakedown as fans and media watched on from afar.
In a video posted to the team’s YouTube channel, Hamilton’s first words were captured as he met with his new employers for the first time.
“I’ve been waiting for this day forever, so I’m really, really happy,” Hamilton said.
“I’m excited to meet everybody, I can’t wait to start and get going.”
Before his first few laps in the Ferrari car, Hamilton delivered an emotional recount of his thoughts as he went for a run around the iconic racetrack.
“I’ve seen photos of this [the Fiorano Circuit] … when I was running down with the hairpin over there and I was looking back over here and I was like, oh my god,” he explained.
“It was like hitting me in waves. It’s been such a dream to come here and have this experience.
“It’s amazing, [I] have got my parents here, my dad and my two moms. And yeah, it’s been a long, long, long way.
“I feel like it’s the first day of work, first day of school.”
Hamilton overwhelmed after first outing for Ferrari
As the Tifosi watched on, Hamilton completed his first appearance in red with no complications as he took to the radio to express his happiness.
“Wow, that was amazing!” he exclaimed with joy.
Afterwards, Hamilton went over to a section of fans surrounding the track to greet the adoring crowd present that day.
Since then, the ex-Mercedes driver has gone on to complete tests at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya as he continues his preparation for the 2025 season.
Coming up next week, fans will get to see the brand-spanking new Ferrari livery at the F1 75 Live event at London’s O2 Arena on 18 February.
The day after, Ferrari will showcase its SF-25 for its own launch event at the Fiorano track.
Whilst the new season of F1 approaches, Hamilton has also been working on his Italian as he integrates himself into the team.
In his first message in Italian, translated to English, the Stevenage-born racing driver thanked his new crew for the “warm welcome” he has received.
“I am happy to start this new adventure with you at Ferrari,” he said.
READ MORE: Lewis Hamilton delivers first message in Italian to Ferrari at F1 factory
