Lewis Hamilton’s eagerly anticipated first drive of a Ferrari Formula One car was largely obscured by thick fog at the Fiorano Circuit in Italy.
The seven-time world champion took to the track in an older Ferrari F1 car, but visibility was severely limited for the spectators.
“He has disappeared in the mist,” joked one fan on social media.
“Looks like some kind of a secret reveal. Just need to wait for the mist to clear and we will see Hamilton,” another commented.
Lewis Hamilton drove a Ferrari for the first time on Wednesday
REUTERS
Sky Sports News’ attempt to broadcast the historic moment live was thwarted by unfortunate timing.
Reporter Craig Slater had to inform viewers: “I am afraid your timing is very unfortunate because Lewis Hamilton has just flashed past in the last few seconds.”
The broadcaster then had to wait for Hamilton to complete another lap, but the heavy fog made it nearly impossible to see the car clearly.
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Lewis Hamilton’s eagerly anticipated first drive of a Ferrari Formula One car was largely obscured by thick fog at the Fiorano Circuit in Italy
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Ferrari released footage of Hamilton, now 40, emerging from the historic house of founder Enzo Ferrari wearing their iconic red race suit.
The British driver has been at Ferrari’s headquarters in Maranello since the start of the week following his arrival from Mercedes.
On Monday, Hamilton was photographed in front of the iconic Ferrari house wearing a stylish suit during his first day at the Scuderia base.
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Around 1,000 fans gathered at the Fiorano Circuit hoping to catch a glimpse of their new star driver.
The atmosphere was electric despite the challenging visibility conditions.
“This is absolutely awesome, what a moment,” one supporter wrote on social media.
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Another fan expressed their disbelief, stating: “Still feels like I am stuck in a dream.”
Hamilton’s move to Ferrari comes after ending his illustrious 12-year partnership with Mercedes at the conclusion of last season.
The British driver has signed a two-year contract with Ferrari, reportedly worth £100million.
Lewis Hamilton will be aiming to win a record eighth F1 title in 2025
REUTERS
Adding to the significant changes, Hamilton’s trusted colleague Angela Cullen is set to join him at Ferrari.
Cullen, described as Hamilton’s “chief confidante”, will reunite with the driver after spending the last two years working apart.
Testing for the new season begins in Bahrain on February 26, with the first race of the season poised to take place in Australia on March 16.