Lewis Hamilton Drives Ferrari F1 Car For First Time

British driver Lewis Hamilton cheers Ferrari fans gathered outside the track, after testing a Ferrari Formula One SF-23, in Fiorano Modenese, Italy, Wednesday, Jan.22, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time Formula 1 world champion, had an exhilarating experience as he drove a Ferrari Formula 1 car for the first time at the team's Fiorano test track. The 40-year-old British driver, who recently joined the Italian team for the 2025 season, expressed his excitement, calling it 'one of the best feelings of my life.'

Hamilton took to the track in a 2023-specification Ferrari SF-23, adorned with his racing number, 44. Despite the cold and wet weather, a crowd of around 1,000 spectators gathered to witness Hamilton's debut in the iconic red car. The driver, visibly thrilled, waved to the fans before embarking on his first lap.

Reflecting on the momentous occasion, Hamilton shared, 'When I started the car up and drove through that garage door, I had the biggest smile on my face. It reminded me of the very first time I tested a Formula 1 car, almost 20 years ago.'

Throughout the day, Hamilton interacted with fans who had eagerly awaited his appearance, showcasing his gratitude and excitement for this new chapter in his career. His family, including his mother, was present to support him during this significant moment.

Debut with Ferrari after successful tenure with Mercedes.

Hamilton tests Ferrari SF-23 at Fiorano track.

Hamilton interacts with fans and family during the event.

Transition to Ferrari stirs excitement in F1 landscape.

Hamilton fulfills childhood dream by joining Ferrari.

Fans and sports stars anticipate Hamilton's move to Ferrari.

Hamilton praises Ferrari's passion and energy.

Testing under 'previous cars' rule allows Hamilton to cover 1,000 km.

Pre-season testing for 2025 season scheduled in Bahrain.

Exciting season ahead with Hamilton's new chapter at Ferrari.

Hamilton's move to Ferrari marks a significant shift in the F1 landscape after his successful tenure with Mercedes, where he clinched six of his seven world titles. The transition has not only stirred excitement among fans but also garnered attention from other sports stars, such as top-ranked tennis player Jannik Sinner, who expressed his anticipation for the upcoming season.

Having fulfilled a childhood dream by joining Ferrari, Hamilton praised the team's passion and energy, stating, 'That passion runs through their veins, and you can't help but be energized by it.'

While F1 regulations limit testing of current-specification cars, Hamilton was able to drive the SF-23 under the 'testing of previous cars' rule, allowing him to cover up to 1,000 kilometers over four days. The pre-season testing for the 2025 season is scheduled from Feb. 26 through 28 in Bahrain, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.