Ferrari said ‘No’ to Black F40 for Hamilton’s photo
A recent revelation has shed new light on the iconic photo of Lewis Hamilton at Maranello, posing alongside the legendary Ferrari F40 supercar. The image, which has garnered an astonishing 5.7 million likes on Hamilton’s Instagram, appears to be a carefully curated moment, with Hamilton dressed in a sleek black suit and overcoat. However, according to reports from Italian publications Corriere della Sera and Autosprint, the seven-time world champion had initially requested that the F40 be presented in black, rather than its signature scarlet red.
Hamilton’s desire for a black F40 was reportedly driven by his commitment to social justice initiatives, including fighting discrimination and promoting inclusion. The color black was intended to serve as a symbol of his advocacy for these causes. However, Ferrari ultimately declined Hamilton’s request, opting instead to showcase the F40 in its classic red livery.
According to Autosprint correspondent Fulvio Solms, Ferrari’s decision was motivated by a desire to protect the team’s legacy and reinforce the notion that the team’s identity takes precedence over individual preferences. While Hamilton is undoubtedly one of the most influential Formula 1 drivers of all time, Ferrari’s stance serves as a reminder that the team’s values and traditions remain paramount.
The incident highlights the complexities of Hamilton’s relationship with Ferrari, which has been the subject of much speculation in recent months. As one of the most successful drivers in Formula 1 history, Hamilton’s influence extends far beyond the track, and his commitment to social justice causes has earned him widespread admiration. However, Ferrari’s decision to decline his request for a black F40 serves as a reminder that the team’s identity and legacy remain non-negotiable.
Toto Wolff, Hamilton’s former team principal at Mercedes, has acknowledged the significance of the photo, describing it as “iconic” and praising Hamilton’s ability to curate his public image. However, the revelation that Hamilton had initially requested a black F40 adds a new layer of complexity to the story, highlighting the tensions between individual identity and team loyalty that exist within the world of Formula 1.
