Lewis Hamilton described himself as “invigorated” after his first Ferrari car was unveiled to fans at The O2 as part of the F1 75 Live event.
On a special evening, celebrating 75 years of Formula One, Hamilton was given the biggest cheer of the night at the London venue as he was welcomed alongside Charles Leclerc.
The two drivers alongside team principal Fred Vasseur showcased the SF-25, which unsurprisingly was in classic red, and each of the trio were asked for one word to describe their feelings towards the car.
“The word that I am thinking of is invigorated because I feel so full and life and so full of energy because everything is new,” Hamilton replied as he passionately addressed the British crowd supporting him.
“Just focused on what’s up ahead. I’m so proud to be part of the team, so new and exciting for me.”
Hamilton left Mercedes after 12 years in both the longest and most successful team-driver combination in F1 history, taking up a spot alongside Leclerc, who admitted that he is gunning for the title in 2025.
“I am actually excited,” Leclerc said. “Fred didn’t show me the car until tonight so I am actually discovering it with you all. If I had to choose one word, I was going to say fulfilment.
“Fulfilling my childhood dream of becoming Formula One world champion. But I think the one that fits better is honour. [I am] honoured to be part of this team, it has been a dream of mine since I was a child growing up.
“I am living the dream and super honoured to be part of this team, hopefully looking forward to writing history alongside Lewis.”
Vasseur, meanwhile, used “success” and “enjoy” as his two words.
Ferrari described the livery change as “symbolising dynamism and a vision that looks to the future”.
Hamilton added earlier in the day: “My first few weeks have been absolutely incredible and I’ve seen first-hand the passion and dedication of the entire team. So much hard work has gone into preparing for the season ahead and we couldn’t be more hungry or determined to succeed.
“I came into the year with so much anticipation for this new chapter, and I’m even more energised now by the spirit and belief of everyone I’ve met over the past month.”
However, the 40-year-old won’t spend much time back in his homeland, as the team travels back to Italy shortly after the F1 group launch.
They are heading to their Fiorano test track as part of their own launch event, with hoards of fans expected to be in attendance.
Ferrari’s SF-25 livery features a large white area across their engine cover as part of increased branding from HP, alongside a switch to a pullrod front suspension set-up.
