Hamilton thanks Ferrari team with holiday gifts after challenging debut season
After a debut Ferrari season without a Grand Prix podium, Lewis Hamilton thanked team staff with holiday gift hampers, calling the year "life-changing." Team principal Fred Vasseur noted the immense challenge of Hamilton's switch from Mercedes, as both driver and team now focus on building for 2026.
Lewis Hamilton has concluded a difficult debut season with Ferrari, marked by a lack of podium finishes, but has expressed gratitude to his new team with personalized holiday gifts. The seven-time champion sent hampers of Fortnum & Mason tea, biscuits, and chocolate to team employees, accompanied by a signed photo and a card reading "Happy Holidays, From Lewis." While the gesture received little public fanfare, several Ferrari staff members shared their thanks on social media, highlighting the driver's appreciation for their support throughout a turbulent year.
Why it matters:
Hamilton's first year at Ferrari was historically challenging for the champion, failing to secure a Grand Prix podium for the first time in his career. His gesture of thanks, despite the on-track struggles, underscores his commitment to building relationships and integrating into the Scuderia's culture—a critical factor for long-term success as the team works to provide him with a competitive car.
The details:
- Hamilton's 2025 season included a sprint race win in China but no top-three finishes in a Grand Prix, breaking a personal record of podium consistency.
- Team Principal Fred Vasseur acknowledged the significant adjustment Hamilton faced, moving from a 20-year environment at McLaren and Mercedes to Ferrari's entirely different operations, from software to personnel.
- In a reflective statement, Hamilton called the experience "life-changing" and expressed no regret over his decision to join Ferrari, emphasizing the time needed to grow within the organization.
The big picture:
The 2025 season represents a reset for both Hamilton and Ferrari. His patience and team-building efforts, symbolized by the holiday gifts, are foundational steps as Ferrari develops its 2026 car—a project seen as crucial for returning to championship contention. Hamilton's integration and morale will be key as the team aims to bridge the performance gap to rivals like Red Bull and Mercedes.
What's next:
Focus now shifts entirely to 2026. Hamilton will spend the off-season further acclimating to the team's processes, while Ferrari's technical department, under new leadership including Chassis Director Loic Serra, finalizes the design of its next-generation car. Success will depend on translating this cultural integration into on-track performance with a more competitive package.