Ferrari fans filled the streets of Imola, dressed in their iconic rosso corsa red, eager to see Lewis Hamilton race for Ferrari on Italian soil for the first time. The seven-time Formula 1 world champion’s move sparked excitement and high hopes. However, after months of anticipation, results on track have yet to meet expectations.
Ferrari’s New Era Begins with Struggles
Hamilton’s switch from Mercedes to Ferrari raised hopes for ending the team’s championship drought since 2007. But the new Ferrari SF-25 car has shown weaknesses. It lacks pace and consistency, leaving Ferrari in fourth place in the constructors’ championship. Hamilton is currently seventh in the drivers’ standings, trailing McLaren’s Oscar Piastri by 90 points.
Loyal Tifosi Show Support Despite Challenges
Despite the tough start, Ferrari’s passionate fans, known as tifosi, remain devoted. Since Monday, many have queued daily outside Maranello, Ferrari’s home base, hoping to see their heroes. Hamilton feels the energy. “There’s a lot of hope and expectation—but that comes with greatness,” he said. “It’s beautiful to experience.”
Hamilton Adjusts to Ferrari’s Culture and Car
After 12 years at Mercedes, Hamilton is still adapting to Ferrari’s systems and team dynamics. The adjustment has been difficult. His frustration is clear but constructive. It reflects a competitor pushing to improve rather than creating disruption.
Ferrari’s Team Principal Addresses Pressure
Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur spoke about the pressure surrounding this home race. “This brings extra expectation, but it’s positive. It motivates us,” he said. Vasseur also praised Hamilton’s attitude. “He sees this as a huge chance to connect with the tifosi.”
Fans Hold onto Hope for Future Wins
Young fans like Kiarah and Selena from Ravenna showed their support wearing full Hamilton-Ferrari gear and homemade “44” headbands. “We love his winner’s mentality,” Kiarah said. “Maybe not now, but he will win for Ferrari.”
Practice Sessions Offer a Glimmer of Promise
In Friday’s first practice, Hamilton finished fifth, just 0.1 seconds behind leader Oscar Piastri. Other top drivers like Lando Norris, George Russell, and Max Verstappen were close behind. However, in the afternoon session, McLaren’s Piastri and Norris led, while Hamilton fell further back.
Though Hamilton and Ferrari have not yet become frontrunners, passion among tifosi remains strong. Both the driver and the team are still finding their rhythm. Fans remain hopeful that soon, Hamilton will bring Ferrari back to championship glory on Italian soil.