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As Lewis Hamilton starts his highly anticipated journey with Ferrari, the seven-time Formula 1 champion has opened up about his vision for life beyond the racetrack. With his historic move to Maranello alongside Charles Leclerc, Hamilton is not only chasing a new challenge but also embracing the legacy of the Prancing Horse.
The British driver, who confirmed his Ferrari switch in February 2024, made the decision to leave Mercedes after an era of dominance that saw him claim six world titles, 78 pole positions, and 82 Grand Prix victories. The transition, enabled by a contract release clause, marked the end of a partnership that shaped modern F1 history. Reflecting on the move, Hamilton admitted, “it was one of the hardest decisions I have ever had to make.” Despite the difficulty, he remains optimistic, stating, “The time is right for me to take this step and I’m excited to be taking on a new challenge. I will be forever grateful for the incredible support of my Mercedes family, especially Toto [Wolff, Mercedes team principal] for his friendship and leadership and I want to finish on a high together.”
The allure of Ferrari, a brand synonymous with F1 greatness, proved too strong to resist. As Hamilton himself put it, “Every driver dreams of racing for Ferrari.” Now, as he prepares for his debut in red, he has also painted a picture of his dream retirement.
Speaking to TIME, Hamilton shared his love for the Ferrari 250 GT California Spyder, a legendary convertible that gained iconic status after appearing in Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986). Envisioning his ideal post-racing life, he remarked, “That’s the ultimate retirement car.” He even humorously imagined himself driving along the Pacific Coast Highway with his beloved bulldog, Roscoe, by his side. “I can just see myself with Roscoe, him with a scarf and goggles in the seat next to me, driving down the PCH.”
The 250 GT California Spyder, produced between 1957 and 1963, remains one of Ferrari’s most revered models. Designed by Sergio Scaglietti, its combination of a V12 engine, breathtaking curves, and a race-inspired pedigree made it a symbol of automotive luxury. With only 106 units ever built, this rare machine commands staggering prices. A 2015 auction saw one previously owned by Alain Delon sell for nearly €16.3 million ($18.5 million at the time), which would be approximately $24.8 million today after inflation adjustments. Currently, Classic.com estimates the average value of the car at around $7 million.
Despite speculation surrounding his potential retirement, Hamilton was quick to dismiss any notions of stepping away from the sport anytime soon. In the same interview, he firmly stated, “What I can tell you is, retirement is nowhere on my radar. I could be here until I’m 50, who knows.”
