Lewis Hamilton confesses he’s ‘itching’ to make Ferrari debut at Australian GP

Lewis Hamilton reckoned that he simply couldn't wait to make his Grand Prix debut for Ferrari this weekend.

Lewis Hamilton confesses he’s ‘itching’ to make Ferrari debut at Australian GP

Lewis Hamilton (via Scuderia Ferrari)

Formula 1 returns this weekend at the Australian GP. Lewis Hamilton will finally make his debut for Scuderia Ferrari at Albert Park. Now, the seven-time world champion has asserted that he couldn’t wait to hit the track in his new colors.

Hamilton had a positive outing during preseason testing at Bahrain’s Sakhir International Circuit with the Ferrari SF-25. The British driver reckoned that he was feeling quite confident despite only having completed three days in his 2025 challenger.

So far, I definitely feel [confident]. I’ve only had three days in the car.

Lewis Hamilton said during press conference
YouTube video

Nevertheless, Lewis Hamilton made it clear that he was itching to kick off the weekend. He pointed out that he has waited for this moment ever since he announced his move to Maranello early last year. Moreover, the 40-year-old emphasized that this would be a ‘first’ moment with Ferrari, which he would remember for the time to come.

FS Video

I’m just itching to get going. It’s been a long time coming and to think that this is going to be one of those other ‘firsts’ with the team, I’m really grateful to have the opportunity.

Lewis Hamilton explained

Though, Lewis Hamilton admitted that it was unclear where the Scuderia stands in comparison to the rest of the grid. As such, the Italian team would simply focus on getting the best result possible at the Albert Park circuit.

Difficult to know where we stand with everyone else but we just try to keep our heads down and focus on our job.

Lewis Hamilton added

Lewis Hamilton not feeling ‘any pressure’ as a Ferrari driver

The seven-time world champion finally joined the Prancing Horse after spending almost two decades in Formula 1. Lewis Hamilton joins the likes of all-time greats such as Michael Schumacher and Alain Prost, who have raced for the Scuderia. Nevertheless, this has not increased pressure on the Briton.

Lewis Hamilton (via Getty)
Lewis Hamilton (via Getty)

Hamilton claimed that throughout his F1 career, the pressure he has put on himself has been at least ten times higher than any external pressure. The F1 star made it clear that even after joining Ferrari, he does not feel any added pressure.

Always through the years, the pressure that I put on my myself has always been 10x higher than any other pressure than can be put on me. I’ve not joined this team and been made to feel any pressure.

Lewis Hamilton added

Lewis Hamilton declared that he had his own expectations for the upcoming season. The 40-year-old had a clear understanding of the results that he can deliver for his new team. Thus, Hamilton was ready t0o simply focus on performances and not be distracted by any outside noise.

I have an expectation for myself, I know what I can bring I know what I can deliver, I know what it’s going to take to do that so it’s just keeping my head down and working away.

Lewis Hamilton noted

The British driver has not shown any signs of difficulties in adjusting to the Italian team so far, which is certainly a major positive for this new partnership. However, the Australian GP will serve as the first test for Hamilton and Ferrari when it comes to working together during a race weekend.

Can Lewis Hamilton win the Australian GP?

Melbourne’s Albert Park returns as the season-opener on the F1 calendar after five seasons. The track is a favorite for drivers and fans alike. If Lewis Hamilton manages to win the race this weekend, it would be the perfect start for the Scuderia’s campaign.

Lewis Hamilton
Lewis Hamilton (via GPBlog)

However, things will not be so easy. McLaren, Red Bull, and potentially even Mercedes will pose a challenge to Ferrari this weekend, as all four teams are expected to be similar in performance. Lewis Hamilton will need to bounce back this weekend after a string of underwhelming seasons at the Silver Arrows. Moreover, he also needs to outperform teammate Charles Leclerc.

Certainly, the seven-time world champion will push himself to the limit over the course of his first race weekend for Ferrari. However, a lot will depend on the pace of the SF-25. If the Ferrari car can be slightly quicker than its rivals, it could present an ideal opportunity for Hamilton to kick off the season with a spectacular victory in Melbourne.

On the other hand, if Ferrari fails to match its rivals, it could set a difficult path for Hamilton’s journey. The Italian team must be ready to manage its star driver if McLaren or Red Bull turn up with a significant pace advantage. As such, the Australian GP will be a crucial race for the seven-time world champion.