LONDON – Seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton made his highly anticipated global debut as a Ferrari driver on Tuesday night as the sport launched its 2025 season with an extravagant event at London’s O2 Arena.
Hamilton, who first tested Ferrari’s car at the team’s Fiorano track in Italy last month, was the undeniable star attraction of the evening.
Dressed in Ferrari’s iconic red overalls, the British driver received thunderous applause from the 15,000-strong audience, who had snapped up tickets within 20 minutes when they went on sale last year.
A Historic Moment in Formula 1
The London showcase, billed as a ground-breaking event, was Formula 1’s first-ever global season launch of this scale. It brought together all 20 drivers from the 10 teams competing in 2025, each making a grand entrance to an electrified crowd.
But it was Hamilton, a national icon and the most successful driver in F1 history, who stole the spotlight. As he took the stage, the crowd erupted in cheers, marking the first time many had seen him officially representing Ferrari.
“Good evening, everyone,” Hamilton greeted the crowd, beaming with excitement. “Such a great night to be here among all of you. The word I am thinking about is ‘invigorated’. I feel so full of life because everything is new. Just focused on what’s ahead. I am so excited to be part of the team.”
New Beginnings with Ferrari
Hamilton’s switch from Mercedes to Ferrari for the 2025 season is one of the most talked-about moves in F1 history.
Having spent over a decade with Mercedes and winning six of his seven world titles with the team, his transition to the Italian marque signals the beginning of a new era for both him and the legendary Scuderia.
His presence at the London event also marked a symbolic shift in Ferrari’s recent history. The team has not won a drivers’ championship since 2007, and fans hope Hamilton’s arrival will end that drought.
His new teammate, Charles Leclerc, was also present at the event, as were other top drivers, including reigning world champion Max Verstappen, Lando Norris, and George Russell. The drivers shared their enthusiasm for the upcoming season, but Hamilton’s presence commanded the most attention.
F1’s Spectacular Season Kickoff
The O2 Arena event was designed to bring fans closer to the sport ahead of the highly anticipated 2025 campaign. The spectacle featured team reveals, driver interviews, and interactive experiences for attendees, setting the stage for what promises to be an intense season.
Formula 1’s decision to host such an extravagant launch reflects the sport’s growing popularity worldwide. With Hamilton joining Ferrari, anticipation for the new season has reached fever pitch.
As pre-season testing approaches and the first race in Bahrain looms, Hamilton’s Ferrari debut has already generated a buzz unlike anything seen in years.
Whether his move will lead to a historic championship run remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—his arrival at Ferrari has reinvigorated both the team and the sport.
