Lewis Hamilton has already made a big impression since joining Ferrari.
The seven-time world champion is settling into life with his new team ahead of the 2025 Formula One season.
x / @autosportThe F1 legend spoke Italian during a speech to fans[/caption]
As well as taking part in private testing, Hamilton has also started to endear himself to the Tifosi.
However, one of his biggest concerns ahead of joining from Mercedes had been speaking Italian.
Speaking last year, he joked: “I think learning Italian’s going to be the hardest, probably. But at the moment getting to the podium probably is the less likely one.”
Hamilton has now shown off his language skills since making those comments, though, after addressing fans in a speech.
The 40-year-old thanked the team’s supporters for their warm welcome in Italian as he was presented to fans.
Translated to English, he said: “Hello everyone. Thank you for your warm welcome.
“I am happy to start this new adventure with you at Ferrari. It has always been my dream to be part of this team. I can’t wait to work with you. Thank you.”
And his new team principal Fred Vasseur was clearly impressed, looking on with a big grin at his new driver.
Hamilton’s language skills will also have piqued the interest of former Ferrari boss Stefano Domenicali.
The F1 CEO previously spoke of the importance of the Brit learning Italian after moving to the team for the new season.
x / @autosportHamilton thanked supporters for their warm welcome at Ferrari[/caption]
GettyThe seven-time world champion will make his Ferrari debut next month[/caption]
Domenicali explained: “He is learning to speak Italian and to understand how to integrate into our culture.
“I told him it is fundamental for him to be able to do this as well. In Ferrari, he will find a different environment than before.”
Hamilton’s start to life at Ferrari has seen him join team-mate Charles Leclerc in private testing for the 2025 campaign.
Both drivers will also take part in further pre-season testing in Bahrain later this month.
All teams will be on the track at the Bahrain International Circuit between February 26 and 28.
Meanwhile, Hamilton’s race debut for Ferrari comes in just over a month’s time.
Fans can see him compete in their famous red colours for the first time at the season-opening Australian Grand Prix on March 16.
But for now, all eyes will be on February 18 as every Formula 1 team unveils their new cars.
The F1 75 Live event will take place at the O2 Arena and will be the first time ever that all the teams will show off their new liveries and updates at the same time.
All 20 drivers and every team principal are set to be in attendance.