Hamilton at Imola: between Buongiorno in Italian and the reminiscence of Senna

Lewis, the Italian. Hamilton already research his subsequent viewers and learns their language. “Good morning” says the 7-time world champion in Italian to the purple followers gathered within the Imola fan zone. Applause: individuals already love him understanding that subsequent 12 months he’ll go away Mercedes to drive Ferrari. A banner says (in English): “My mom loves you greater than she loves me.” On stage, Lewis appreciates: “I am very excited for right this moment, but additionally for subsequent 12 months”, he continues in English, scary applause and a waving of flags with the Cavallino. “The climate is fantastic, it is good to be in Italy.” Hamilton is attentive to high quality, wholesome dwelling, he likes good meals and for him, born within the mists of Nice Britain, good climate makes him really feel comfy. He lives in Monte Carlo. Who is aware of, he would possibly transfer to Maranello in 2025 to be nearer to the workforce. The Italian workforce actually appears to be like at him with totally different eyes now.

Leclerc: “We’ll search for a double tomorrow”

Charles Leclerc, his subsequent teammate, explains to him what it means to drive the purple automotive: “I have been at Ferrari for six years, however I nonetheless have not gotten used to the eagerness of the followers. Ferrari is you. We hope to present you again the enjoyment with a 1-2 on Sunday.” Carlos Sainz, who will as an alternative go away Maranello to make room for Hamilton, thanks “for these 4 years collectively, we are going to see one another round anyway and I hope you proceed to assist me. Within the meantime, let’s go and win it.”

In Senna’s reminiscence

Hamilton, like everybody else, additionally appears to be like at this race via the gaze and reminiscence of Ayrton Senna, who died 30 years in the past on this monitor 24 hours after Roland Ratzenberger. Within the metropolis, there are numerous initiatives in honor of the Brazilian champion. His niece, Bianca, is selling the Senna basis which raises funds to present Brazilian kids who can’t, an schooling and a possibility for social redemption. Sebastian Vettel, who retired from F1 two years in the past, will take a spin within the McLaren MP4/8 on Sunday earlier than the GP, the final one pushed by the Brazilian champion in 1993 earlier than shifting to Williams the next 12 months.

Lewis is without doubt one of the drivers closest to Senna and says: “I keep in mind the day of his demise, it was so tragic. Ayrton was my favourite driver. It was what impressed me to be the rider I’m right this moment. I keep in mind as a toddler crying for weeks afterwards.”

There’s a number of Italy within the F1 driver lineup. Max Verstappen additionally tells his story to the followers in Imola: “Most of us grew up in Italy going karting, so for me Italy is a very particular place. I’ve made many associates and reminiscences right here, I like driving right here, the followers listed below are those who love the game of F1 probably the most.” F1, so Italian.