Lewis Hamilton acknowledged Ferrari’s fans who came to watch his track debut (Image: Getty Images)
Lewis Hamilton made sure to acknowledge his adoring fans at Fiorano after his first experience of machinery. Earlier this week, Hamilton enjoyed his first day with his new team, meeting his new colleagues at their base in Maranello.
On Wednesday, Hamilton got down to business, experiencing the first of several tests planned before the start of the new season. Dressed in his new red racing overalls and sporting a striking yellow helmet, the Brit got in the SF-23 to complete several laps on the team’s own Fiorano test track.
Hie debut piqued massive interest from fans who flocked to the outskirts of the circuit to witness the moment. Many waved flags in approval of their team’s new high-profile recruit, while several Union Flags were also seen in clear support of Hamilton as he acclimatises to his new environment.
Plenty of video footage and photos have already surfaced from the test, including plenty showing his racing number 44 on the side of the car for the first time. More images have now been shared on social media, showing Hamilton expressing his gratitude to the gathered fans.
When get got to one corner of the circuit after the test, Hamilton emerged from the back of a black Alfa Romeo to wave to the large crowd assembled outside the track. In response, chants of his name can be heard and fans waved their flags in support.
On Monday, Hamilton was introduced to many key figures at his new home, including team boss Frederic Vasseur. Having previously worked with Vasseur in his pre-F1 racing days, the encounter was a reunion of sorts.
He also met with chairman John Elkann and CEO Benedetto Vigna. Hamilton expressed his excitement after his first day: “There are some days that you know you’ll remember forever and today, my first as a Scuderia HP driver, is one of those days.
“I’ve been lucky enough to have achieved things in my career I never thought possible, but part of me has always held on to that dream of racing in red. I couldn’t be happier to realise that dream today.
“I’m incredibly grateful to John Elkann, Benedetto Vigna, Fred Vasseur and everyone at for their trust in me and making me part of this family. I’m so excited to start this new era and to meet and work with a hugely talented and inspiring group of people.
“I’m dedicated to bringing everything I have to deliver for the team, the wider organisation and the fans. Today we start a new chapter in the history of this iconic team, and I can’t wait to see what story we will write together.”
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