Hamilton makes historic Ferrari F1 debut at Fiorano test track

Seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton has completed his first laps as a Ferrari driver, marking a watershed moment in the sport's history as he took to the wheel of a 2023 SF-23 at the team's legendary Fiorano test track.

Dawn of a new era

The morning fog at Maranello did little to deter the passionate tifosi who gathered at Ferrari's private testing facility to witness Hamilton's maiden outing in red.

Shortly after 9am local time, the British champion emerged in Ferrari colors, sporting a distinctive yellow helmet that contrasted sharply with his new scarlet racing suit.

Initial running saw Hamilton conduct systems checks on Pirelli's wet demonstration tires, with teammate Charles Leclerc scheduled to join later in the day as the team captures content from this historic first outing.

Immersion in Ferrari culture

Hamilton's integration into the Ferrari family began earlier in the week with a symbolic visit to Enzo Ferrari's historic mansion.

The resulting photograph of Hamilton, known for his distinctive fashion sense, posed in front of the iconic residence quickly captured the imagination of fans worldwide.

The transition period has included crucial meetings with team principal Fred Vasseur and chief executive Benedetto Vigna, as well as a significant encounter with Piero Ferrari, son of the company's legendary founder.

Hamilton has already begun the technical groundwork, having completed a seat fitting and familiarized himself with driving procedures in the team's simulator.

New partnerships and familiar faces

The test session marks Hamilton's first collaboration with race engineer Riccardo Adami, following the conclusion of his long-standing partnership with Peter Bonnington at Mercedes.

However, the move has facilitated a reunion with former physio Angela Cullen, who has joined Hamilton's Project 44 company after a two-year hiatus.

Reflecting on this pivotal career moment, Hamilton shared his emotions on social media:

"There are some days that you know you'll remember forever and today, my first as a Ferrari driver, is one of those days. I've been lucky enough to have achieved things in my career I never thought possible, but part of me has always held on to that dream of racing in red. I couldn't be happier to realise that dream today."