F1 News, Reports and Race Results

Hamilton in action with Ferrari as first images emerge

Lewis Hamilton’s legendary Formula 1 career entered a thrilling new chapter on Wednesday morning as the seven-time world champion took to the track for the first time in Ferrari red.

The fog hung heavy over Fiorano when Hamilton emerged on the track shortly after 9am local time, adding a mystical air to the Scuderia’s venue.

But the dampness couldn’t extinguish the excitement expressed by those who had descended upon Maranello to catch a glimpse of their new hero, their passionate chants echoing through the Italian countryside.

A Special Morning at Fiorano

Donned in Ferrari red and sporting a bright yellow helmet, Hamilton’s opening laps were run on Pirelli’s wet demo tyres, as the team conducted initial systems checks on the SF-23.

Ferrari has reportedly organized a full day of activity at Fiorano, with Hamilton slated to drive not only the 2023 car but also the F1-75, the team’s 2022 contender, as part of a filming day.

Lewis Hamilton (GBR) drives the Ferrari for the first time - Fiorano Modenese, Italy - www.xpbimages.com, EMail: requests@xpbimages.com © Copyright: XPB Images
Ferrari and Lewis Hamilton (GBR) fans - Fiorano Modenese, Italy - www.xpbimages.com, EMail: requests@xpbimages.com © Copyright: XPB Images
Ferrari and Lewis Hamilton (GBR) fans - Fiorano Modenese, Italy - www.xpbimages.com, EMail: requests@xpbimages.com © Copyright: XPB Images
Ferrari and Lewis Hamilton (GBR) fans - Fiorano Modenese, Italy - www.xpbimages.com, EMail: requests@xpbimages.com © Copyright: XPB Images
Lewis Hamilton (GBR) drives the Ferrari for the first time - Fiorano Modenese, Italy - www.xpbimages.com, EMail: requests@xpbimages.com © Copyright: XPB Images
Lewis Hamilton (GBR) drives the Ferrari for the first time - Fiorano Modenese, Italy - www.xpbimages.com, EMail: requests@xpbimages.com © Copyright: XPB Images

 

Charles Leclerc will join the Briton out on track later today, completing the picture of Ferrari’s formidable new driver pairing.

Since Monday, Hamilton has immersed himself in the Ferrari world at Maranello, visiting the Scuderia’s facilities while meeting with key figures such as team principal Fred Vasseur, CEO Benedetto Vigna, and many other members of the Italian squad, forging the relationships that will shape his future with the Scuderia.

Seat fittings and simulator sessions were also on Hamilton’s schedule. But Wednesday’s outing is the culmination of this week’s initial preparations and the first tangible step into the 40-year-old’s exciting new adventure.

And for good measure, here's a short video of Hamilton in action this morning at Fiorano:

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.

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