Lewis Hamilton’s Ferrari action which ‘Schumacher was never liked’ for…read more
Lewis Hamilton’s recent move to Ferrari has been marked by a notable gesture: delivering a speech in Italian to his new team members at Maranello. This act of embracing the local culture has drawn comparisons to Michael Schumacher’s tenure with the Scuderia, with some suggesting that Schumacher’s reluctance to speak Italian affected his popularity in Italy.
Hamilton, a seven-time world champion, transitioned from Mercedes to Ferrari ahead of the 2025 Formula One season. Upon his arrival, he addressed the team in Italian, saying:
> “Hello everyone. Thank you for your warm welcome. I am happy to start this new adventure with you at Ferrari. It has always been my dream to be part of this team. I can’t wait to work with you. Thank you.”
This effort to communicate in the native language of his team has been well-received, with team principal Fred Vasseur and former Ferrari chief Stefano Domenicali expressing their appreciation. Hamilton’s initiative underscores the importance of cultural integration within the team.
In contrast, Michael Schumacher, who secured five consecutive Drivers’ Championships with Ferrari between 2000 and 2004, was known to be less inclined to speak Italian publicly. This reluctance reportedly led to perceptions of him being less connected with the Italian fanbase, known as the Tifosi. Despite his unparalleled success on the track, some felt that Schumacher’s limited use of Italian hindered a deeper bond with the local supporters.
It’s worth noting that Schumacher did possess proficiency in Italian. He even lent his voice to the Italian version of the animated film “Cars,” indicating a level of comfort with the language. However, his public interactions in Italian were relatively rare, which may have contributed to the perception of distance between him and the Italian fans.
Hamilton’s proactive approach to embracing Italian culture extends beyond his initial speech. Reports suggest that he has been taking Italian lessons in preparation for his role with Ferrari, aiming to foster a closer connection with both the team and its supporters.
This cultural integration is significant in the context of Formula One, where the relationship between a driver and the team’s fanbase can influence the overall dynamics within the team. Ferrari, with its rich history and passionate following, places a strong emphasis on unity and shared identity. Hamilton’s efforts to speak Italian can be seen as a strategic move to align himself with these values, potentially enhancing his rapport with the Tifosi and fostering a harmonious working environment.
The comparison between Hamilton and Schumacher in this regard highlights the evolving expectations of drivers within Formula One teams. While technical skill and on-track performance remain paramount, there is an increasing appreciation for the softer aspects of team integration, such as cultural assimilation and communication. Hamilton’s actions suggest a recognition of this broader role and a willingness to engage with it fully.
As Hamilton embarks on this new chapter with Ferrari, his linguistic and cultural efforts may serve as a model for future drivers joining international teams. By embracing the local culture and language, drivers can build stronger relationships within their teams and with their fanbases, potentially contributing to their success both on and off the track.
Lewis Hamilton’s decision to address his Ferrari colleagues in Italian marks a deliberate and thoughtful effort to integrate into the team’s culture. This approach contrasts with Michael Schumacher’s tenure, where a lesser emphasis on speaking Italian was noted. Hamilton’s actions underscore the importance of cultural engagement in modern Formula One, reflecting a holistic understanding of what it means to be part of a globally renowned team like Ferrari.
