Hamilton: The most interesting period in life begins

      Lewis Hamilton is starting his first season with the Ferrari team, and today he spoke to the press in a great mood, stressing that he is proud to represent this legendary brand.

      Lewis Hamilton: "Of course, I am very lucky that my career in Formula 1 is developing so successfully. I made my McLaren debut in 2007, and I was filled with unforgettable emotions back then. Then, when I joined Mercedes, it also became an incredibly important event for me.

      I think what's happening now brings back memories of my debut season in F1. But all these years, when I walked around the paddock, I looked at the garage, decorated in red, and now I'm in this garage. In general, I am overwhelmed with the most joyful feelings again.

      After three days of pre-season testing, the mood is quite positive, although it is still difficult to say at what level we are compared to other teams. But we are working, first of all focusing on our tasks, and personally I am just burning with impatience – I want to get to work on the track as soon as possible.…

      I think the demands I've been making on myself over the years are ten times higher than any other pressure I can feel. I didn't come to this team to feel any special pressure. I have my own expectations, I know what I can give to Ferrari, I know what results I am capable of, and what efforts it will take to achieve them.

      Now you just need to show maximum perseverance and work. My approach to this weekend is completely open, and I understand that it is very important to find the right rhythm from the very beginning of the season. I'm still developing a new car for me, which is very different from all the vehicles I've driven in previous stages of my career, in the sense that I've only ever worked with Mercedes engines before.

      There are new sensations and new experiences associated with the transition to Ferrari power plants, but this team also practices completely different working methods. Everything is perceived differently here, and this is also interesting in its own way and poses special challenges for me. Definitely, the most interesting period of my life is beginning now, I'm just enjoying everything that's happening and looking forward to getting behind the wheel tomorrow.

      When you join a new team, the sooner you start showing the results you need, the better. Of course, there is always some kind of transition period when the foundation is being laid, and in the previous couple of months we have been doing just that. The first half of the season will be primarily devoted to building relationships with the team, because you need to earn the trust of all the people you work with – this is not achieved immediately, it takes time.

      Of course, my goal is to win and help the team move forward. The previous few years were not the best in my career, so let's see if this year will be more successful. But it depends on a lot of factors..."