Lewis Hamilton Leaves Heartfelt Note at…read more
As Lewis Hamilton prepares for the upcoming Chinese Grand Prix, the seven-time Formula 1 world champion has made a sentimental stop at one of motorsport’s most iconic locations—Ristorante Montana. Situated just outside Ferrari’s Fiorano test track in Maranello, the restaurant has long been a cherished haven for Ferrari drivers, engineers, and racing legends.
Hamilton, who is set to join Ferrari in 2025, left a heartfelt note at the restaurant, adding his name to a historic collection of messages from some of the greatest drivers in the sport’s history. His visit is a nod to the deep-rooted Ferrari culture, and his inscription will now be preserved alongside the signatures of Formula 1 icons such as Michael Schumacher, Nigel Mansell, Kimi Räikkönen, David Coulthard, Jacques Villeneuve, and Felipe Massa.
A Legendary Restaurant in Motorsport History
Ristorante Montana is more than just a place to eat—it is a symbol of Ferrari’s legacy in Formula 1. The restaurant has been welcoming Scuderia Ferrari’s greatest drivers, designers, and personnel for decades, becoming a second home for many within the team. The walls of this beloved establishment tell the story of Italian motorsport, adorned with helmets, racing suits, photographs, and memorabilia from legendary moments in Ferrari’s racing history.
The restaurant is run by Rossella Giannini, a woman who is beloved by Ferrari’s racing community. She has personally welcomed and served some of the greatest names in the sport, earning praise from the likes of Michael Schumacher himself. Many drivers see Ristorante Montana as a sanctuary, where they can enjoy a warm meal and immerse themselves in the deep passion that Ferrari represents.
Over the years, a special tradition has taken root within the restaurant. A collection of signed napkins, left behind by racing legends, has grown into a treasured part of Ristorante Montana’s charm. Each signature represents a piece of Ferrari history, preserving the legacy of those who have raced in the team’s iconic red colors.
Hamilton’s Connection to Ferrari Grows
Hamilton’s visit to Ristorante Montana marks another step in his journey toward becoming a Ferrari driver. Though he is still racing for Mercedes in the 2024 season, his move to the Scuderia in 2025 is one of the biggest stories in Formula 1. By signing his name alongside Ferrari greats, Hamilton is embracing the history and passion of the team he will soon call home.
This visit comes just weeks after Hamilton’s challenging Australian Grand Prix campaign, where he endured a difficult weekend with Mercedes. However, his gesture at Ristorante Montana shows that his mind is already looking ahead to the future. By leaving a message at this historic eatery, Hamilton is signaling his respect for Ferrari’s legacy and his excitement for the journey ahead.
The Tradition Continues
Hamilton’s name will now sit alongside Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc, Ferrari’s current drivers, as well as past legends who have contributed to the team’s illustrious history. The tradition of drivers leaving their mark at Ristorante Montana has created a unique bridge between generations of racers, connecting Hamilton to the Ferrari legends who came before him.
As he now turns his focus to the Chinese Grand Prix, Hamilton’s heartfelt note at Ristorante Montana serves as a reminder of the rich heritage he will soon become a part of. While his final season with Mercedes unfolds, his journey toward Ferrari has already begun in small, meaningful ways.
For Formula 1 fans, this moment is yet another chapter in the ever-evolving story of one of the sport’s greatest drivers. When Hamilton finally dons the Ferrari red in 2025, his signature at Ristorante Montana will stand as a symbol of his connection to the team and its extraordinary history.
