Lewis Hamilton admits that competing in this weekend’s Italian Grand Prix at Monza as a future Ferrari driver “definitely feels a bit different” compared to previous seasons.
The seven-time F1 world champion will move to Maranello at the end of this year’s campaign after an incredibly successful twelve-year tenure with Mercedes.
With this major change on the horizon, the Briton was asked in Thursday’s media conference if he had noticed a change in the Tifosi’s fervor towards him.
“I don’t know, it definitely does feel a little bit different,” he admitted. “I mean, it always feels special when you come here.
“There’s always such incredible passion throughout Italy, just in general, but particularly about racing.
“It’s always exciting to see the fans at the end of the weekend, it’s a passionate event, and the excitement that they bring to this race is really not particularly matched in any way.”
With the full crowd yet to arrive at Monza, Hamilton was asked what kind of reception he anticipated from the Scuderia’s impassioned supporters throughout the weekend.
He admitted he was unsure but reflected on his experiences with the Italian fans in the past.
“If I’m honest, the last couple of years, I mean, over the last few years, I’ve had a really warm welcome, a really good time,” he said.
“It was one time when we were really fighting against Ferrari, a couple of points, but even then, people were positive, there was no negativity.
“It will be interesting to see how that is this year. But already in Imola, for example, I’ve got a really good warm reception.”
Hamilton’s future Ferrari teammate, Charles Leclerc, provided some insight into what the Briton can expect from the Tifosi.
“It’s definitely very, very special to be driving for Ferrari in Monza, in Italy,” Leclerc said.
“There’s something that is iconic, and yeah, it’s such a special feeling, the amount of support we have.
“We obviously have it everywhere in the world, but whenever we are in Italy, it’s extra special.
“It’s difficult to get in and out of the hotel every morning and every evening, but it’s a very special feeling and a lot of support, so it’s motivating us at the maximum.”
Looking ahead to their future partnership, Leclerc added: “We’ll be experiencing that next year, we’ll experience that together, and I’m sure it will be a special year.”
As Hamilton prepares for the Italian Grand Prix with Mercedes one last time, the anticipation of what’s to come with Ferrari is already palpable.
The Tifosi’s reaction this weekend could offer a glimpse of the excitement that awaits when Hamilton finally dons the iconic red overalls of Ferrari.
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