Pursuing his eighth Formula 1 World Championship, British racing superstar Lewis Hamilton has pledged allegiance to Ferrari and its impassioned fanbase, the Tifosi, ahead of the 2025 season. The commitment was made during a grand event in Milan’s Piazza Castello, where Hamilton and his teammate Charles Leclerc received a warm reception from approximately 35,000 fans. This public gathering was arranged by Unicredit, a notable Ferrari sponsor, and featured Hamilton and Leclerc showcasing Ferrari’s old-spec cars.
Hamilton, whose admiration for the Tifosi was palpable, shared his intent to strengthen his bond with these dedicated fans. “I’ve witnessed the Tifosi’s support for Sebastian [Vettel], Fernando [Alonso], Charles, and Carlos [Sainz]. Their passion didn’t surprise me,” Hamilton confessed. “I am gradually getting to know the Tifosi better. I am even eager to communicate with them in Italian and am working towards it.”
The last time a Ferrari driver hoisted a championship trophy was back in 2007, when Kimi Raikkonen outscored Hamilton by a single point. Hamilton, who transitioned from Mercedes to Ferrari, respects the craving of the Tifosi fans for another championship win.
“Driving for Ferrari is a tremendous honor. They already boast an impressive legacy, so it’s not as if they need another championship. However, I am aware that’s their raison d’etre, and I understand how much the Tifosi yearn for it,” he said. “I am at a loss for words to describe how special it would be to contribute to this legacy. That’s our shared goal.”
Hamilton, still in disbelief about his move to Ferrari, is thrilled about making his debut in the iconic red racecar. The 40-year-old driver, who won his first of seven Drivers’ titles in 2008, the same year Ferrari last won the Constructors’ Championship, expressed his astonishment. “I’m still pinching myself,” he admitted. “I can’t quite articulate just how excited I am to start a grand prix in red.”
Hamilton’s successful career includes an impressive 12-season stint with Mercedes, during which he won six World Championships and helped the team secure eight constructors’ titles. Despite this, the opportunity to race for Ferrari in 2025 was one he couldn’t pass up. As the season opener in Australia fast approaches, Hamilton, Ferrari, and the Tifosi fans are all brimming with anticipation.