(Motorsport-Total.com) – Lewis Hamilton celebrated his first victory as a Ferrari driver at the Grand Prix of Barcelona-Catalunya, thus reaching a significant milestone in his still young time with the Scuderia. After the success of the seven-time Formula 1 world champion, Ferrari chairman John Elkann also spoke out with personal congratulations.
Read more Formula 1 Live Ticker: Does Hamilton now have real championship chances?
In an official statement, Elkann congratulates the driver on his maiden victory in red: “Well done, Lewis, on your first big win with Ferrari. It’s an emotional moment and a very important result that belongs to the entire team and all our fans.”
At the same time, the Ferrari chairman extends his thanks to the team’s employees: “I want to thank everyone for their determination, sacrifice, and collective effort, which they demonstrate every day with passion and Ferrari spirit both at the racetrack and in Maranello.”
Elkann praises Ferrari’s overall performance
Furthermore, Elkann also makes a reference to the Italians’ endurance program. “My thanks also go to the other Ferrari team, which tackled the incredibly demanding 24 Hours of Le Mans with pride, cohesion, and great professionalism and fought until the end. Forza Ferrari.”
Hamilton himself also appears visibly moved after the race. Immediately after crossing the finish line, he thanked the team in Maranello via team radio. “Grazie a tutti, Maranello. Thank you very much. You helped me make this dream come true, and I can’t thank you enough,” says Hamilton.
Read more F1 Live Ticker: Does Hamilton now have real championship chances?
He then addresses the team’s employees, his family, and his supporters: “I am so proud of you. To my family: I love you. To my fans: Thank you for continuing to remind me who I am. I couldn’t have done this without you.”
Hamilton’s path to Ferrari and title fight 2026
Hamilton had moved to Ferrari before the 2025 season after twelve years with Mercedes. After his first season for the Scuderia had fallen far short of expectations, the Briton seems to have rediscovered his old strength in 2026.
With his success in Barcelona, he solidified his position in the title fight and reduced the gap to the top of the drivers’ standings from 66 to 41 points, remaining a direct pursuer of Kimi Antonelli.
Read more F1 Live Ticker: Does Hamilton now have real championship chances?