Lewis Hamilton is set to officially begin his tenure as a Ferrari driver next week, marking a new chapter in the seven-time world champion’s illustrious career.
As an employee of the Scuderia, his initial days at Maranello will involve a mix of meetings, simulator sessions, and track time at Fiorano. However, Ferrari is keeping the schedule tightly under wraps.
This secrecy stems from concerns over the logistical challenges posed by Hamilton’s presence. Thousands of Tifosi are expected to gather if details of his test become public, making it a “hard job for the police” to manage the crowds.
Team principal Fred Vasseur is keen to minimize distractions, believing that maintaining focus will benefit both Hamilton and the team.
A winter reset is clearly crucial for Hamilton, who endured the statistically worst season of his career in 2024. Mercedes concluded the year with a disappointing fourth-place finish in the Constructors’ Championship, nearly 200 points behind McLaren.
The arrival of young talent Kimi Antonelli at Mercedes signaled a fresh start for the team, but Hamilton’s decision to move on suggests he was seeking a similar reboot.
Hamilton’s Ferrari contract, officially described as a “multi-year” agreement, has sparked speculation. Initial reports suggested a two-year deal with an optional third year, but Formula1.com journalist Lawrence Barretto cites rumors that Hamilton has already committed to a full three-year term, taking him through the 2027 season when he will be nearing 44.
This aligns with Hamilton’s earlier request to Mercedes for a three-year extension, which Toto Wolff declined. Frustrated by what he perceived as a lack of commitment from the team he helped win six world titles, Hamilton opted for a one-plus-one deal with Mercedes. This allowed him to activate an exit clause following talks with Ferrari.
A three-year commitment from Ferrari would represent a significant vote of confidence from Vasseur, especially after Hamilton’s difficult season raised questions about his performance.
To silence any doubts, Hamilton will need to prove he’s not in decline and hold his own against teammate Charles Leclerc. If he succeeds, the struggles of 2024 could be dismissed as an anomaly linked to Mercedes’ W15 car.
An adjustment period is expected as Hamilton adapts to Ferrari. Mistakes, such as the time he mistakenly entered McLaren’s pit box after joining Mercedes, could cost him precious seconds if repeated. However, with his record-breaking career as a foundation, Hamilton has the tools to make this new chapter a successful one.
