Lewis Hamilton ‘trained like mad’ ahead of Ferrari test as Brit’s dad gives rare insight | F1 | Sport
Anthony Hamilton has offered a glimpse into his son’s off-season, explaining that Lewis Hamilton ‘trained like mad’ ahead of his blockbuster move to Ferrari.
The seven-time world champion followed in the footsteps of Alain Prost and Michael Schumacher when he drove Ferrari machinery for the first time on Wednesday morning. Hamilton is enjoying his first week in red as he adapts to his new life in Italy.
F1’s most decorated driver arrived in Maranello off the back of his worst F1 season to date. Hamilton finished seventh in the Drivers’ Championship in 2024 and was out-qualified 19-5 by team-mate George Russell. However, a fresh start at Ferrari could be the catalyst for a return to form.
The Daily Mail spoke to Hamilton’s father, Anthony, in Maranello ahead of his first on-track action at the Fiorano facility on Wednesday. “You know what?” he said. “This feels just like the first day at McLaren.”
Hamilton Snr also offered a peek into his off-season, explaining that the 40-year-old had ‘trained like mad’ ahead of the move, and that his ‘focus and belief are total’.
While the shift from life in Brackley to Maranello will be an extreme one for Hamilton, he has enjoyed the presence of the most important members of his entourage during his early days in Italy.
Alongside father Anthony, the Brit’s mother, Carmen, was also at the test in Fiorano and was spotted taking photos of her son on her smartphone as he waved to the Tifosi, who lined the streets to greet him. Stepmother Linda was also present.
Alongside his family, Hamilton was joined in Maranello by a familiar face. Angela Cullen – the Brit’s beloved trainer – has reunited with the seven-time world champion after calling time on their partnership in early 2023.
Cullen initially retired from working in motorsport but was coaxed back into action by IndyCar starlet Marcus Armstrong. Now, she is back by Hamilton’s side and has moved near Fiorano to aid the 40-year-old in his final career transition.
