‘I won’t fit in the car anymore’ Lewis Hamilton admit after Ferrari…read more
Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time Formula One World Champion, has embarked on a new chapter in his illustrious career by joining Scuderia Ferrari. This significant move, confirmed in February 2024, saw the 40-year-old Briton replace Carlos Sainz Jr., partnering with Charles Leclerc for the 2025 season. Hamilton’s transition to the iconic Italian team has not only been a professional shift but also a cultural immersion, especially evident in his enthusiastic embrace of Italian cuisine.
A Passion for Italian Cuisine
Since relocating to Italy and integrating into the Ferrari family, Hamilton has indulged in the rich culinary traditions of his new home. He humorously expressed concerns about his dietary habits, stating, “Oh God. I’ve eaten so many pizzas in the last few weeks. But funnily enough, I’ve lost weight.” Highlighting his particular favorites, he added, “Last week alone I had three pizzas. I love Italian food. Penne all’arrabbiata is still my absolute favorite dish.” This newfound gastronomic indulgence has led Hamilton to jest about the potential impact on his racing condition, quipping, “I have to be careful and I can’t eat pizza all year round. Otherwise, I won’t fit in the car anymore.”
Deep-Rooted Connections to Italy
Hamilton’s affinity for Italy isn’t a recent development. His early racing career is intertwined with the country, dating back to his karting days. At the age of 13, Hamilton honed his skills in Italy alongside his first mechanic, Luca del Fante. He reminisced about those formative years, recalling, “I still remember going into town with … [Rosberg] every evening to buy pizza and … .” These experiences not only shaped his racing career but also fostered a lasting appreciation for Italian culture and cuisine. Hamilton fondly remembered the hospitality of his mechanic’s family, noting, “Luca, my first mechanic, … I have never forgotten that lasagne … .”
Embracing the Ferrari Legacy
Joining Ferrari, a team steeped in history and passion, has been a dream realized for Hamilton. He expressed his excitement about this new venture, stating, “I’m really conscious of the fact that there are only a handful of special first times in life… Given I’ve raced for so long, even I’m surprised at just how much I still love what I do—it felt so new.” Hamilton’s enthusiasm was palpable as he described his inaugural experience with the team, highlighting the unique atmosphere and the fervor of the Tifosi—the dedicated Ferrari fanbase. He remarked, “I knew that I would see the Tifosi on the bridge and to … .”
A Warm Welcome from the Tifosi
The Tifosi have embraced Hamilton with open arms, eager to witness his contributions to the Scuderia’s legacy. In a display of their dedication, fans gathered at the Fiorano circuit to catch a glimpse of Hamilton’s first drive in the SF-25 car. One particularly zealous supporter went to the extent of chopping down a tree that obstructed the view, much to the amusement and cheers of fellow fans. This incident underscores the fervent support and high expectations placed upon Hamilton as he dons the iconic red suit.
Aiming to End the Title Drought
Hamilton’s arrival at Ferrari comes with the collective hope of ending the team’s championship drought, which dates back to Kimi Räikkönen’s 2007 title. Paired with Charles Leclerc, Hamilton is poised to leverage his extensive experience and success to propel Ferrari back to the pinnacle of Formula One. The dynamic between the seasoned champion and the talented Monegasque is anticipated to be a focal point of the 2025 season.
Impact on the Driver Market
Hamilton’s high-profile move has reverberated throughout the Formula One driver market. Carlos Sainz Jr., displaced by Hamilton’s arrival, has transitioned to Williams, bringing his expertise to the historic British team. This shuffle has set off a chain reaction, influencing team strategies and driver placements across the grid. The confirmed driver line-ups for the 2025 season reflect this dynamic shift, with notable pairings such as Max Verstappen and Liam Lawson at Red Bull, George Russell and Kimi Anton … at Mercedes, and Lando Norris alongside Oscar Piastri at McLaren.
Looking Ahead
As the pre-season testing phase commences in Bahrain, all eyes are on Hamilton and his integration into the Ferrari team. His blend of experience, skill, and renewed enthusiasm is expected to be a catalyst for Ferrari’s resurgence. Hamilton’s personal journey, marked by a deep-seated connection to Italy and its culture, adds a compelling narrative to his quest for an eighth World Championship title. The 2025 season promises to be a defining chapter in both Hamilton’s career and Ferrari’s storied history.
