Ferrari reacts to Hamilton's debut: 'Quite an emotional feeling'
F1 News
- Sandy van Wijngaarden
Lewis Hamilton's long-awaited debut at Ferrari became a reality on Wednesday. At Fiorano, the Briton saw his first action in front of thousands of fans. Charles Leclerc and Frederic Vasseur commented on his debut.
Lewis Hamilton's switch to Ferrari was announced at the beginning of 2024, but fans had to wait a long time before the seven-time world champion could actually start working at the Scuderia.
On Wednesday, 22 January, the day finally arrived, and the Briton was allowed to drive the Ferrari for the first time. Both Hamilton and Leclerc did so in the 2023 car. Respectively, the drivers completed 30 and 14 laps at the Fiorano circuit.
Leclerc and Vasseur react to Hamilton's debut for Ferrari
Leclerc commented on both his first day for Ferrari in 2025 and Hamilton's debut for the team. "The first day back in the car is always a great feeling after the holidays. It’s good to be back on track and to see that so many fans came out to watch us. Feeling all this excitement surrounding the team is very motivating. It was a good day, even though it was raining a little bit when I was driving.
"Of course, it was nice to be able to see Lewis driving his first laps in a Ferrari, which was a special moment for the team and for him. Now I’m looking forward to being back in the car next week and to really start working hard for the coming season," said the Monegasque.
Ferrari team boss Frederic Vasseur also commented on the first day for both his drivers. "As is the case every year, the first time you go out on track is a bit like the first day back at school and quite an emotional feeling, especially today as it was Lewis’ first day as part of the team. Welcoming a new driver is always an important moment. Maybe today was less special for Charles, but it was good to see him fit, relaxed and keen to go racing again."
In addition, the Frenchman went into some details surrounding the test day. "As for the technical side, Charles and Lewis did their laps in not the best weather, but they got back in the swing of things and immersed themselves in the track environment prior to the first proper test in a month’s time in Bahrain. It was also a warm-up for the team in the garage. That was the sole purpose of today." Vasseur said.