Shock Exit? Hamilton Benched as Ferrari Shake-Up Stuns…. read more
In a significant development for the 2025 Formula One season, seven-time World Drivers’ Champion Lewis Hamilton has transitioned from Mercedes to Ferrari, aiming to secure the Scuderia’s first championship title since 2008. Hamilton’s move concludes a remarkable 12-season tenure with Mercedes, during which he clinched six of his seven titles and amassed 84 Grand Prix victories.
Ferrari’s 2025 campaign commenced with the unveiling of their new car, the SF-25, at the F175 live car launch event earlier this week. The event featured both Hamilton and his teammate, Charles Leclerc, presenting a united front as they prepare for the upcoming season. Team Principal Fred Vasseur expressed optimism, highlighting the team’s determination to contend for the championship after narrowly missing the constructors’ title by 11 points to McLaren in the previous season.
Following the launch, the SF-25 made its on-track debut at Ferrari’s private Fiorano test track. Charles Leclerc was the first to take the wheel, completing initial laps while Hamilton observed alongside Vasseur and reserve driver Zhou Guanyu
. The team’s official social media channels shared images of Leclerc driving the SF-25, generating excitement among fans and stakeholders.
Hamilton’s integration into the Ferrari team has been marked by enthusiasm and commitment. The 40-year-old driver has embraced his new environment, engaging with team members and immersing himself in the team’s culture. Notably, Hamilton has relocated his mobile home adjacent to the residence of Ferrari’s late founder, Enzo Ferrari, symbolizing his dedication to the team’s legacy. He has also been learning Italian and maintaining a vegan diet, reflecting his holistic approach to this new chapter in his career.
The partnership between Hamilton and Leclerc is poised to be a focal point of the 2025 season. Leclerc, who has been with Ferrari since 2019, brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the team’s dynamics. His familiarity with Ferrari’s operations and culture is expected to complement Hamilton’s fresh perspective and extensive experience, creating a synergistic driver lineup. Team Principal Fred Vasseur has noted the positive rapport between the two drivers, expressing confidence in their collaborative potential to drive the team toward success.
The SF-25 itself represents an evolution of the previous year’s model, incorporating advancements aimed at enhancing performance and reliability. The car’s design and engineering have been fine-tuned to address the challenges faced in the prior season, with a focus on optimizing aerodynamics and power unit efficiency. The team’s technical department has worked diligently to ensure that the SF-25 is competitive from the outset, reflecting Ferrari’s commitment to reclaiming their position at the pinnacle of Formula One.
As the season approaches, Ferrari’s primary competitors are expected to include McLaren, Red Bull Racing, and Mercedes. McLaren’s driver pairing of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri proved formidable in the previous season, securing the constructors’ championship. Red Bull Racing, with four-time World Champion Max Verstappen and newcomer Liam Lawson, remains a constant threat. Mercedes, now featuring George Russell and rookie Andrea Kimi Antonelli, will be eager to reestablish their dominance after a transitional period.
Pre-season testing is scheduled to commence in Bahrain from February 25 to 28, providing teams with the opportunity to fine-tune their setups and assess the performance of their new machinery under competitive conditions. The first race of the season is slated for March 16 in Australia, marking the beginning of what promises to be a highly competitive championship battle.
Ferrari’s fanbase, known for its passionate support, has responded positively to the team’s developments. The unveiling of the SF-25 and the high-profile signing of Hamilton have reignited enthusiasm and optimism among supporters. The team’s social media platforms have seen increased engagement, with fans expressing excitement and anticipation for the forthcoming season.
In addition to on-track preparations, Ferrari has also launched their 2025 merchandise line, offering fans a range of products to showcase their allegiance. The collection includes apparel and accessories featuring the team’s iconic colors and branding, allowing supporters to connect with the team’s identity. The merchandise launch has been well-received, with strong sales indicating robust fan engagement.
As the countdown to the 2025 Formula One season continues, Ferrari’s strategic moves—both in driver acquisition and technical development—underscore their ambition to return to championship-winning form. The combination of Hamilton’s experience, Leclerc’s talent, and the advancements embodied in the SF-25 positions the team as a formidable contender. The motorsport community will be closely monitoring Ferrari’s progress as they strive to end their championship drought and reaffirm their legacy in Formula One.
