When Lewis Hamilton donned his Ferrari race suit for the first time last month, he took a moment to embrace his new appearance. For racing drivers, putting on a set of overalls is an instinctive action, repeated countless times throughout their careers. However, wearing the distinguished red of Ferrari is a privilege afforded to very few, making this transition especially significant for Hamilton after a 12-year journey with Mercedes in silver and black.

This was the moment he had anticipated: the vibrant Ferrari red enveloped him, bringing excitement and anticipation that had been building for quite some time. After the launch of the F1 season in London and his initial test drive of the 2025 vehicle, this dream has become a reality.

The allure of Ferrari is unparalleled. Regardless of the number of world championships or races won, becoming part of F1’s most legendary and successful team is an extraordinary experience. This unique allure drew Hamilton to make the switch, and his enthusiasm has been palpable since joining the Maranello team in January.

As the new season approaches, Hamilton’s passion remains unwavering. Following a challenging final year at Mercedes, during which his love for F1 seemed diminished by a less competitive car, he now approaches this new chapter with renewed vigor and hope. He believes that the elusive eighth world championship, which he nearly secured in 2021, may once again be within his grasp with Ferrari.

“They have all the components needed to clinch a world championship,” Hamilton stated. “It’s simply about aligning all the pieces.”

Adapting to a new environment is a rarity for Hamilton in his illustrious F1 career. Unlike many other drivers who often experience team changes—Carlos Sainz recently noted his tenure across half the grid in a decade—Hamilton is now settling into only his third team. This marks his first time racing without Mercedes engines and his inaugural experience with a non-English team.

“This transition is monumental,” Hamilton expressed following his first test in Ferrari’s latest car. “It truly doesn’t get any bigger.” Navigating the adjustments, from the vibrations of the Ferrari engine to the various steering wheel functions, has given Hamilton a newfound respect for drivers who successfully navigate such shifts. Nonetheless, he is welcoming this change with open arms.

“Every day presents something new, which is genuinely thrilling,” Hamilton shared.

This adventure also includes learning Italian. Although Ferrari conducts meetings in English, Hamilton began Italian lessons last year to foster better communication with his mechanics and engineers, engaging in casual conversations about daily life. Mastering a new language has always been one of Hamilton’s aspirations. Just last week, he delivered a speech in Italian at Ferrari’s headquarters and looks forward to immersing himself in Italian culture—and cuisine. “Last week, I enjoyed three pizzas,” Hamilton admitted, humorously noting that while he has lost some weight, he knows he can’t maintain that pace forever.

Vasseur and Hamilton unveiled the SF-25 at F1 75 Live on Tuesday. (Sam Bloxham/Getty Images)

Hamilton’s commitment to connecting with his new team has not gone unnoticed. On his first day at the factory, he made it a point to meet and greet each of the 1,500 team members. “He has a remarkable way with people,” remarked Jerome d’Ambrosio, Ferrari’s new deputy team principal, who previously collaborated with Hamilton at Mercedes. “The team has already taken a shine to him after just one day.”

Hamilton has also been captivated by various aspects that distinguish Ferrari, such as having the entire organization under one roof—a notable difference from Mercedes, whose engine facility was a 40-minute drive from the F1 headquarters—and even access to a test track right on the premises.

He has begun establishing a rapport with his new teammate, Charles Leclerc. Though they had interacted previously, it was only after Hamilton officially joined Ferrari that they could collaborate in earnest. They are already engaging in exciting chess matches against each other, with Hamilton leading 3-2 according to Leclerc. Signs of a strong partnership are evident.

“The early weeks of collaboration have been outstanding,” noted Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur. “It’s no surprise. We are starting in an excellent position now. The key is to maintain this relationship, to work together as a unit, and to push forward as a team.”

Vasseur emphasized that Hamilton is the “ideal fit” for Ferrari at this moment, while Leclerc believes the Briton has arrived at a pivotal time as the team’s mentality has never been stronger, thanks in part to Vasseur’s leadership. With no more rebuilding phases, Ferrari is setting its sights on competing for the championship.

“Lewis joining the team has been a tremendous boost, positively impacting us in numerous ways,” Leclerc commented. “Yet, the atmosphere within the team is calm, focused, and clear regarding the direction we need to take without getting distracted by external pressures. That stability is incredibly encouraging.”

The ultimate question remains: how well will Hamilton perform when the new F1 season kicks off, and how does Ferrari stack up against its rivals?

Hamilton is confident that Ferrari possesses all the necessary elements to secure the world championship for the first time since 2008. Last year, they fell just 14 points short of claiming the constructors’ title, losing out to McLaren—an exceptionally slim margin but a critical one. As teams prepare for a highly competitive season, with Vasseur predicting four teams will vie for race victories, every fraction of a second will be crucial.

“It’s not about completely overhauling the car,” Vasseur stated. “If we can improve performance in one or two areas, that’s already a significant advancement. Lewis brings his extensive experience and background, which will be invaluable for the team’s development in every aspect.”

Ferrari opted for a major design shift with its 2025 vehicle, transitioning from a push-rod suspension to a pull-rod design. The goal of this change is to enhance airflow around the car and facilitate better aerodynamic development since the previous model reached its optimization limits. While the SF-25 is an evolution of last year’s model, maintaining the same overall concept reduces the learning curve for the team, although every component is new.

Despite his confidence in Ferrari’s potential for title victories, Hamilton is acutely aware of the intense competition awaiting them this season. “It’s far too soon to determine how the year will unfold,” he reflected. “What we do know is that the competition among the top teams will be extremely tight. We haven’t seen the performance of the other cars yet, and we haven’t been on the track together.”

Lewis Hamilton greets fans after a session at the Fiorano Circuit on February 19, 2025. (Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)

While Hamilton aims for an eighth drivers’ title, his appreciation for Ferrari’s legacy runs deep. He understands how significant it would be for the team to break its title drought—especially considering the dedication of everyone at Maranello and throughout Italy to accomplish this goal. “This is what I’m striving for,” he noted. “I’m not focused on the number eight; I’m more concerned about the first championship the team has achieved in quite a while.”

Hamilton recognizes the hard work that lies ahead as they prepare for the upcoming season, yet the renewed enthusiasm he has found with Ferrari is evident in every interaction. This shift has reinvigorated him in many aspects. At 40, there’s no indication he is contemplating the end of his F1 career; he feels youthful and remains in peak physical form. This new journey is fueling his motivation further.

“The energy I’m receiving from the team is extraordinary,” Hamilton expressed. “A lot of effort and dedication from everyone is required to make this happen, and it’s clear that everyone is already fully committed to that goal.”

“It’s about belief. Each person here dreams of winning with Ferrari,” he added.

After challenging years, Lewis Hamilton is regaining that belief. Upcoming weeks will unveil the reality of his title prospects in his first season in red. For now, everything feels promising.

“I know I’m exactly where I need to be,” Hamilton affirmed. “It feels natural, it feels right.”

(Top photo of Lewis Hamilton: Sam Bloxham/Getty Images)