Lewis Hamilton’s $7 Million Dream Car for Retirement
As Lewis Hamilton gears up for a fresh chapter in his illustrious Formula 1 career alongside Charles Leclerc at Ferrari, the seven-time world champion has given fans a glimpse into what his post-racing life could look like. Despite ongoing speculation about his retirement, the British driver has made it clear he’s not ready to step away just yet. However, he has shared a nostalgic vision of his dream car for the future—a rare and highly sought-after Ferrari 250 GT California Spyder, a vehicle valued at around $7 million.
A Monumental Move to Ferrari
In early February 2024, Hamilton confirmed one of the biggest moves in modern Formula 1 history—his departure from Mercedes to join Ferrari in 2025. This decision marked the end of an era, concluding a remarkably successful partnership that spanned over a decade. During his tenure with the Brackley-based outfit, Hamilton secured six of his seven world championships, 82 Grand Prix victories, and 78 pole positions.
Hamilton acknowledged the emotional weight of this transition, calling it “one of the hardest decisions I have ever had to make.” However, he emphasized that the timing felt right to embrace a fresh challenge, adding, “I’m excited to be taking on a new journey.”
The British driver also expressed deep gratitude towards Mercedes, particularly team principal Toto Wolff, whose guidance and leadership played a crucial role in shaping his career. “I will forever be grateful for my Mercedes family,” Hamilton said, “especially Toto, for his friendship and leadership. I want to finish this chapter on a high note.”
While leaving Mercedes was undoubtedly difficult, the allure of Ferrari—a team steeped in motorsport history—was too great to resist. “Every driver dreams of racing for Ferrari,” he admitted.
The Ultimate Retirement Ride
Despite rumors of an impending retirement, Hamilton has dismissed any suggestions that he is ready to walk away from the sport. However, he did indulge in a vision of the future, revealing his dream car for retirement in an interview with TIME magazine.
The 39-year-old driver shared his admiration for the legendary Ferrari 250 GT California Spyder, an iconic classic made famous by its appearance in the 1986 film Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. “That’s the ultimate retirement car,” Hamilton said, painting a vivid picture of himself behind the wheel with his beloved pet bulldog, Roscoe, riding shotgun. “I can just see myself with Roscoe, him with a scarf and goggles in the seat next to me, driving down the PCH [Pacific Coast Highway].”
The Ferrari 250 GT California Spyder is considered one of the most beautiful and desirable classic cars ever built. Designed by Sergio Scaglietti and produced between 1957 and 1963, the car was available in both long-wheelbase (LWB) and short-wheelbase (SWB) configurations. The SWB version, particularly prized among collectors, was fitted with an upgraded 280-horsepower V12 engine and featured advanced disc brakes—making it not only a stunning piece of automotive design but also a high-performance machine.
A Rare and Expensive Classic
Given its exclusivity and historical significance, the 250 GT California Spyder remains one of the most expensive vintage Ferraris ever sold. Only 106 units were ever produced, making it a rare collector’s item.
The car’s value has appreciated dramatically over the years, with some examples fetching astronomical prices at auction. One of the most famous sales occurred in 2015, when a Spyder previously owned by French actor Alain Delon was auctioned by Artcurial for nearly €16.3 million (approximately $18.5 million at the time). Adjusted for inflation, that sale would be equivalent to around $24.8 million today.
While the most pristine and historically significant examples can command such jaw-dropping sums, the general market value for the Ferrari 250 GT California Spyder currently sits at approximately $7 million, according to data from Classic.com.
No Retirement Plans—For Now
While Hamilton’s dream car may suggest he’s thinking about life after racing, the driver has firmly denied that retirement is on the horizon. Addressing ongoing speculation, he stated unequivocally, “What I can tell you is, retirement is nowhere on my radar.”
Having turned 39 in early 2024, Hamilton remains one of the most experienced drivers on the grid. However, he has shown no signs of slowing down, and his move to Ferrari signals that he still has plenty of ambition left. In the same interview, he even joked about the possibility of racing well into his 50s. “I could be here until I’m 50, who knows,” he said.
His longevity in the sport is a testament to his relentless drive and passion for competition. While many athletes begin contemplating retirement in their late 30s, Hamilton continues to push boundaries and set new goals. His new venture with Ferrari represents a fresh challenge, and with the Italian team eager to return to championship-winning form, Hamilton’s experience and leadership could be the missing ingredient they need.
Looking Ahead
For now, Hamilton remains laser-focused on his final season with Mercedes, aiming to finish on a high note before embarking on his new journey with Ferrari. Despite Mercedes’ struggles in recent seasons, the team remains competitive, and Hamilton will undoubtedly want to add to his tally of wins before switching allegiances.
Beyond the track, however, his love for automobiles extends far beyond Formula 1. His passion for classic cars, particularly Ferraris, is well-documented. Though he has spent most of his career driving for Mercedes-powered teams, Hamilton has built an impressive personal car collection that includes a LaFerrari, one of Ferrari’s most advanced hybrid hypercars.
The idea of cruising down California’s scenic highways in a vintage Ferrari may still be years away, but Hamilton has made it clear that when the time does come, he already knows the perfect car for the occasion.
For now, though, the British driver remains fully committed to his F1 career, eager to chase more victories and possibly an eighth world title. Whether he eventually fulfills his dream of owning the 250 GT California Spyder remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—Lewis Hamilton’s journey is far from over.
