Lewis Hamilton arrived at Monza this week in one of Ferrari’s most iconic cars.
The seven-time world champion drove his own Ferrari F40 into the paddock ahead of the Italian Grand Prix, adding an extra touch of theatre to an already nostalgic weekend for the Scuderia. Ferrari is using its home race in Italy to celebrate Michael Schumacher, who joined the team 30 years ago and went on to win five of his seven world championships in Ferrari red.
For the occasion, Hamilton and Charles Leclerc’s cars will feature a special livery inspired by the Ferrari F310 that Schumacher raced during his first season with the team in 1996. Gold accents on the wheels reference the original car, while Schumacher’s familiar logo and seven stars – representing his seven world titles – add a more personal tribute. The symbolism is particularly poignant for Hamilton, who is the only other driver to have matched Schumacher’s seven championships.
Hamilton has spoken openly about the influence Schumacher had on him, recalling watching the German dominate in Ferrari colours and imagining what it would be like to occupy the same cockpit. Now, decades later, Hamilton finds himself carrying on that legacy as a Ferrari driver.
There was also an intriguing twist to his F40 appearance. Hamilton revealed that when the engine was removed from the car, mechanics discovered it carried the number 44 – the same number Hamilton has raced with throughout his career.
With Ferrari celebrating one of its greatest-ever drivers and Hamilton adding his own chapter to the marque’s story, Monza promises to be as much about heritage as horsepower.
