The real deal – Lewis Hamilton dealt warning as Ferrari…

   Lewis Hamilton Faces ‘Real Deal’ Challenge as Ferrari Journey Begins

Martin Brundle has issued a warning to Lewis Hamilton ahead of his Ferrari debut, emphasizing that Charles Leclerc will be a formidable teammate to beat during the upcoming Formula 1 season.

The two Ferrari drivers recently completed a pre-season “wake-up” test at Fiorano, Ferrari’s private test track, where Hamilton made his highly anticipated first appearance in red. Hundreds of fans gathered to catch a glimpse of the seven-time World Champion’s initial laps as a Scuderia driver.

   Charles Leclerc is the Real Deal” – Brundle on Hamilton’s Challenge

Sharing testing duties in a 2023 Ferrari, Hamilton and Leclerc began preparations for their stint as teammates. The pairing has already generated significant excitement, with Hamilton bringing a wealth of experience and records, while Leclerc enters the season off his strongest year yet, which included three race wins.

Brundle, a former F1 driver and current Sky Sports analyst, highlighted Leclerc’s growth as a driver and his potential to pose a serious challenge to Hamilton.

“I never underestimate Lewis Hamilton,” Brundle said. “But Charles Leclerc is incredibly fast. He’s stopped making the mistakes he used to, like overdriving the car and crashing too often. Charles is the real deal now, and he’ll be tough to beat.”

**Hamilton’s Emotional Ferrari Debut**

Hamilton completed 30 laps at Fiorano and described the experience as “one of the best feelings of my life.” Brundle commented on the unique experience of driving for Ferrari, calling it an unparalleled moment for any driver.

“When that garage door opens and you see the red Ferrari waiting for you, it’s something truly special,” Brundle explained. “You’re not just driving for a team; you’re driving for an entire country. Ferrari carries with it immense expectation, and the media and politics that come with the job can be overwhelming.”

**Preparations Continue in Barcelona**

Hamilton and Leclerc are set to continue their pre-season preparations this week at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. Ferrari has reportedly booked the track for three days to give both drivers additional time behind the wheel before the season opener.

Hamilton’s partnership with Leclerc promises to be one of the most fascinating intra-team rivalries of the year. As Brundle noted, Ferrari’s legacy and the fierce competition between its two drivers will ensure the 2025 season is one to remember.