Leclerc hails ‘special moment’ for Hamilton and Ferrari

©Ferrari

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The spotlight undoubtedly shone brightly on Lewis Hamilton on Wednesday at Fiorano, but Charles Leclerc delivered his own brand of magic later in the day.

Following Hamilton’s highly anticipated debut in red, it was Leclerc’s turn to kick into gear at the wheel of the Scuderia’s SF-23 car and captivate the local fans with his own on-track display.

The eight-time Grand Prix winner’s day began in the Maranello offices with a series of meetings and briefings with the team before heading up the road to Fiorano.

While Hamilton required to familiarize himself with Ferrari’s machinery, Leclerc logically ran a different programme, capitalizing on his intimate knowledge of the SF-23.

Scuderia boss Fred Vasseur, along with assistant team principal Jerome d’Ambrosio, closely observed the day’s proceedings from the garage.

Leclerc completed 14 laps of Fiorano, covering 42 kilometers, bringing Ferrari’s total mileage for the day to 131 kilometers across 44 laps.

Fan Appreciation

The day wasn't just about driving. Like Hamilton in the morning, Leclerc also took the time to connect with the passionate Ferrari fans who had braved the damp conditions to witness the action.

©Ferrari

He rewarded their enthusiasm with some exhilarating "doughnuts" on track, sending the crowd into raptures before.

After the session, he was driven out to their usual gathering spot at Fiorano for an improvised autograph session, further solidifying his connection with the Scuderi’as passionate supporters.

Leclerc Reflects on a Special Day

“The first day back in the car is always a great feeling after the holidays,” Leclerc said.

“It’s good to be back on track, to see that so many fans came out to watch us. Feeling all this excitement surrounding the team is very motivating."

Read also:

Hamilton: Ferrari debut 'one of the best feelings in my life’

Reflecting on the significance of the day, he added: “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.”

As the excitement builds for the 2025 season, both Hamilton and Leclerc have made their mark on the first chapter of this new era for Ferrari.

The 2025 campaign has officially begun, with the Italian outfit’s drivers inspiring hope for a competitive year ahead.

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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.