Hamilton says Ferrari’s new F1 car ‘nothing like’ anything he’s driven before

ISTANBUL

Lewis Hamilton has said that his first experience with a Ferrari F1 car is “nothing like” any previous machine he has ever driven.

“It’s nothing like the car that I’ve had before the last 10, 12, 17 years,” said the 40-year-old British driver in his first interview as a Scuderia driver.

He joined the Italian team after 18 seasons—12 with Mercedes and six with McLaren, whose engines were developed by Mercedes.

“It’s unique on its own. To feel the vibration of the Ferrari engine for the first time, wow! That’s what I think ultimately put the biggest smile on my face,” he added.

Hamilton drove Ferrari’s 2025 car, the SF-25, for the first time at the team’s Fiorano testing circuit in Italy.

While F1’s technical regulations remain unchanged for 2025, Ferrari has introduced a major modification by switching from push- to pull-rod front suspension, aiming to unlock new aerodynamic opportunities. Loïc Serra, Ferrari’s chassis technical director, said the team has “worked hard, changing 99% of the car, evolving its architecture to maximize performance.”

Hamilton will also drive his new car in pre-season testing at the Bahrain International Circuit from Feb. 26-28 before the season opener in Australia on March 16.

• Lewis Hamilton
• McLaren
• Mercedes
• Scuderia