In a seismic shift for Formula 1, seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton’s move to Scuderia Ferrari for the 2025 season has sent ripples across the motorsport world. The announcement, which shocked fans last year, was reignited today when Hamilton shared his first official Ferrari-era photo on social media, captioned, “New era @ScuderiaFerrari”.
The striking image of Hamilton in a sharp suit alongside a classic Ferrari symbolized the dawn of a new chapter in his illustrious career. Among the flood of reactions, one stood out: NASCAR star Bubba Wallace replied with a concise but powerful tweet, “Tough!! 💪🏾💪🏾💪🏾”, showcasing his admiration and excitement for the F1 legend.
A bond beyond racing
Hamilton’s influence on Wallace is well-documented, with the NASCAR star frequently citing the F1 icon as a source of inspiration. Wallace, who has broken barriers as the only Black driver in NASCAR’s top series, has often spoken about how Hamilton’s achievements paved the way for athletes of color in motorsport.
“Lewis Hamilton is someone I’ve idolized,” Wallace told CNN. “I’m the only Black driver in NASCAR’s top level. So Lewis’ example—as the lone Black F1 driver—is particularly meaningful for me. To see him conquering the track damn near every weekend, it motivates me to try to do the same.”
The connection between the two extends beyond professional admiration. In 2020, when Wallace joined Michael Jordan’s 23XI Racing, Hamilton congratulated him with a heartfelt message on Twitter, saying, “Congrats to Michael and Denny and a massive congrats to @bubbawallace! This is huge 🙌🏾.” Wallace responded enthusiastically, inviting Hamilton to the Daytona 500. Though Hamilton didn’t attend, the interaction highlighted their mutual respect and camaraderie.
Hamilton’s Ferrari gamble: Redefining his legacy?
Hamilton’s decision to join Ferrari is both audacious and historic. After dominating with Mercedes for nearly a decade, the move represents a significant challenge—and a potential legacy-defining moment. Ferrari, the most storied team in F1 history, hasn’t delivered a championship since 2007. Hamilton’s mission to return the team to glory is one of the sport’s most anticipated storylines.
For Wallace, Hamilton’s move embodies the boldness that has characterized his entire career. As Wallace continues to carve his own path in NASCAR, he draws strength from the barriers Hamilton has shattered in F1.
A shared mission to inspire
The bond between Hamilton and Wallace extends far beyond their respective tracks. As two trailblazers in motorsport, they’ve become symbols of resilience and representation, inspiring a new generation of diverse talent. Wallace once reflected on his childhood, saying, “There was nobody to identify with. I remember always playing the F1 2010-11 game on Xbox, and I’d pick Lewis Hamilton every time. I became a huge fan of his and saw what he was going through.”
Now, as Hamilton begins a new chapter at Ferrari and Wallace continues to rise in NASCAR, their shared journey serves as a testament to perseverance, breaking barriers, and empowering the next wave of motorsport talent.
