Hamilton in Ferrari: “What a thrill”

One of the most intense emotions in one’s life: this is how Lewis Hamilton summed up his first contact with the Ferrari at Fiorano, which took place today, Wednesday 22 January. A special debut, as confirmed by the Briton, seven-time world champion: “So far, in my career, I have been lucky enough to be able to experience many firsts: the first test, the first race, the first podium, the first victory and the first championship Driving a Ferrari single-seater for the first time was one of the best moments of my life.”

special

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Hamilton got behind the wheel of the Ferrari SF-23, the only one capable of breaking the Red Bull monopoly in 2023. After completing 30 laps, Lewis explained: “When I started the car and left the garage, I had my biggest smile on my face.” Then the Englishman made a particular comparison: “It reminded me of the very first time I tested an F1. Almost 20 years later I felt the same emotions again.”

leclerc

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Charles Leclerc was also excited: “The day we return to the cockpit after the holidays is always very exciting. It was nice to get out on the track and see how many fans came to observe us. Feeling and seeing all this enthusiasm around the team motivates us more than anything else. Ever. Overall the day was good, even though it rained a bit while I was driving, and it was great to see Lewis Hamilton complete his first laps in a Ferrari, something very special for him and the whole team time to get back in the car there next week and to start working hard for next season”, added the Monegasque driver.

vasseur

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Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur was also present at Fiorano. The French manager summarized the day: “Like every year, it’s a bit like the first day at school and it’s a rather emotional moment, especially this year with Lewis’ debut with the team. Welcoming a new driver is always an important moment. Today was perhaps less special for Charles Leclerc, but it was nice to see him fit, relaxed and eager to get back to pushing.” And in conclusion: “As regards the technical aspect, the drivers completed their laps in less than optimal weather conditions, but they started to get back into the rhythm in view of the first real test which will be in Bahrain in a month. It was a useful warm-up for the whole team: it was the only real objective of the day.”