Ferrari has made a big move for the upcoming Formula 1 season by signing Lewis Hamilton to race alongside Charles Leclerc. This pairing is already being called the best on the grid, bringing together Hamilton’s experience as a seven-time champion and Leclerc’s impressive talent.

Both drivers are set to be in Maranello next week to begin preparations, with Hamilton being scheduled to start with simulator work before driving a Ferrari F1 car for the first time at Fiorano.

The team’s CEO Benedetto Vigna believes Hamilton’s arrival to will bring fresh energy and expertise to the team. Speaking to Corriere della Sera, Vigna said, “There is excitement, there is a great desire to start, to face the tests. Change is always important and Hamilton has put himself back into the game.

Earlier this month, Hamilton posted a message on LinkedIn encouraging people to “embrace the change,” signaling his readiness for a new chapter with Ferrari.

To that Vigna said: “I loved reading his post on LinkedIn at the start of the year, a powerful message not to give up hope in all areas. With him and Charles, we will have fun.”

He also highlighted Hamilton’s ability to contribute both technically and mentally. “A guy who has won seven titles can transfer so much. If I talk to Fred [Vasseur, Ferrari boss], he emphasizes his ability to give technical guidance, but not only that.

“He has a great desire for change, he’s not afraid. At the age of 40, he has put himself back into the game. He has embraced a different culture in many ways, compared to the Anglo-Saxon one.

“To me that post on LinkedIn reminded me of when Indro Montanelli decided change at the age of 80. I found it beautiful.”

Hamilton is aiming to win a record eighth world championship while also ending Ferrari’s long title drought, which dates back to 2008. Ferrari came close to breaking that streak last year, securing five wins, however, 14 points were missing to beat first McLaren.

Vigna praised the team’s progress, saying, “Last year at the last race in Abu Dhabi I personally thanked the whole team, from Fred Vasseur to the mechanics: I am proud of the work done.”

He also expressed optimism for the season ahead. “Now there is a good atmosphere. It’s clear that it must always be maintained, that’s the beauty of the Ferrari spirit: it always pushes you to go further.

“Lewis will learn things from us and we will learn things from him. It’s like dancing, the important thing is not to lose the pace.”

When asked about Ferrari’s expectations for the season, Vigna gave a measured response: “Wheels on the ground. The fundamental thing is to learn from [previous] mistakes.” With Hamilton joining and the team ready to push its limits, Ferrari hopes this season will mark a turning point.