Lewis Hamilton has expressed immense satisfaction with his initial month as a Ferrari driver, emphasizing a seamless integration and growing bond with the team’s 2025 car. Following an impressive performance during Bahrain testing, where he set the second-fastest time of the week, Hamilton conveyed optimism about his new journey. He highlighted the significance of these early days in laying a strong foundation for the upcoming season, which begins with the Australian Grand Prix on March 16.
The renowned British racer has found his transition to Ferrari remarkably smooth, attributing it to the team's meticulous preparation and collaborative spirit. Despite the intense schedule, Hamilton feels at home and believes this will yield positive results moving forward. The past month has been crucial in establishing a solid base, allowing him to explore various aspects of the SF-25 car without rushing. This methodical approach ensures that every day contributes significantly to their readiness for the season.
Hamilton elaborated on the importance of starting well and how it sets the tone for the future. Since joining Ferrari in mid-January, each day has been about building a robust foundation. Although there have been long hours, he emphasized that they haven't rushed the process. "It felt easy in a sense of gelling with the team," he noted. "I’ve not had to force it, and I feel at home." This sentiment underscores the harmonious relationship between Hamilton and Ferrari, promising a successful partnership.
Hamilton is gradually bonding with the Ferrari SF-25, finding the experience both enjoyable and challenging. During the Bahrain testing, he explored various facets of the car, from setup changes to interactions with his engineer. While the first day was described as merely "OK," the second day saw significant improvements, culminating in back-to-back fastest laps. Hamilton acknowledged that there is still much to learn but expressed confidence in the car's potential.
The differences between the Ferrari and his previous Mercedes vehicle are evident, particularly in terms of settings and driving techniques. Brake bias, for instance, requires adjustment, and Hamilton views this as an exciting learning curve. "All the settings are so different," he remarked. "Even brake bias is different. I’m not necessarily unlearning what I had before but am learning this new way of working." This adaptation phase is crucial for maximizing the car's performance. Hamilton feels that the car responds well to his inputs, signaling a promising start to the 2025 season. As the team continues to refine the SF-25, the coming days will reveal more about its capabilities and Hamilton's adaptability.