Piero Ferrari reveals the behind-the-scenes of the long-awaited Ferrari/Hamilton union

The arrival of Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari has sparked real excitement in Maranello. More than the sporting aspect, it is the warm welcome given to the seven-time world champion by the tifosi that has deeply impressed Piero Ferrari. In an interview with Autosprint magazine, the Scuderia heir shares his first impressions of the driver who will now wear Ferrari’s colors.

Hamilton’s first visit to the Maranello factory resulted in memorable moments. Many tifosi had gathered around the Fiorano circuit, eager to catch a glimpse of their new driver. An enthusiasm that surprised Piero Ferrari: « I could hardly believe it! All this genuine passion struck me. People on the small bridge overlooking the Fiorano track, crowding the cycle path, it was a demonstration of love. Magnificent. »

What also impressed Piero Ferrari was the attitude of the Briton upon his arrival. “I don’t remember other drivers being so elegant on their first day at Ferrari. An impeccable suit, a tie, a fashion plate. We, the executives, were without ties…” he confided.

A long-standing relationship

The choice of the legendary F40 as the backdrop for the first official photo was no coincidence; Hamilton rightly considers it an icon, so he wanted to be photographed with his favorite car, explained Piero Ferrari.

The British driver’s interest in Ferrari road cars is not new. A loyal customer of the brand for several years, he has had to be discreet due to his commitment with Mercedes. Piero Ferrari recalls their first meeting: « The first time he came to us was for the purchase of the LaFerrari in 2014. He spent a lot of time at the factory to study how to customize it. Then, in the evening, he came to greet me and I asked him if he wanted to stay for dinner with me. He was enthusiastic, we talked about cars but not only, and I discovered a truly pleasant and extraordinary person. »

The exchanges between the two men went far beyond the realm of motorsport. « We talked a little about everything. Lewis has great memories of Lauda, as do I. We miss Niki, he was invaluable both for Lewis and for Ferrari. I appreciate that Lewis is not solely obsessed with Formula 1, he knows what’s going on in the world. And then, he has this sensitivity for animals. »

Hamilton’s transfer to Ferrari is the culmination of a long story: « Over the years, we’ve talked and joked here and there. He has expressed several times his desire to race with us, but he had ties with Mercedes, and we with our drivers as well. Then came the moment when Lewis and we saw the opportunity to start negotiations, and the signing followed. », recalls Piero Ferrari.

Experience at the service of Ferrari

Regarding Hamilton’s age, who joins Scuderia at 40, he sees no cause for concern: He is in good health, physically and mentally fit, I really don’t think age is an issue. He accepted the challenge with great enthusiasm, he is confident in his abilities.

The Ferrari heir sees significant potential in this association for the team: « Seven world titles mean the understanding of how to read races. Lewis brings enormous experience to Ferrari, he is a professional of the highest level, he knows how to win races, he has the necessary motivation to succeed. », he stated.

The alliance between Hamilton and Charles Leclerc promises to be electrifying. Drawing a parallel with tennis, Piero Ferrari analyzed the situation by discussing the opposition between youth and experience, akin to the duel between Jannik Sinner and the established figures of the circuit: « It’s always like that between teammates, it’s part of the game. In Charles’ case, there is also the generational discussion we see in tennis with Sinner and other young players: the freshness of youth against the experience and solidity of those who are much older. I am sure that the rivalry between Hamilton and Leclerc will be beneficial to both. »

According to the Ferrari heir, the year 2025 promises to be full of potential. “It will be a spectacular season because we are in the last year of a regulation that is ending and everyone will be at the peak of their performance,” he projected.