Over twenty thousand fans from across Europe flooded Milan’s Piazza Castello and its surrounding streets, painting the city red in a passionate show of support for Charles Leclerc, Lewis Hamilton, and Team Principal Fred Vasseur at the Drivers Presentation by UniCredit event. Organized in collaboration with the pan-European bank, one of the team’s Premium Partners, the event was a spectacular blend of emotion, passion, and speed, marking Scuderia Ferrari HP’s long-awaited return to the Italian city after six years.
Meeting the Fans
The most devoted fans arrived at the break of dawn to secure front-row spots near the stage in Piazza Castello. By mid-afternoon, the excitement was palpable, fueled by an electrifying DJ set that kept the crowd buzzing. The first special guests to grace the stage were Ferrari CEO Benedetto Vigna and UniCredit CEO Andrea Orcel, welcomed by Sky Sports presenters Carlo Vanzini and Vicky Piria. The discussion centred on the strong partnership between UniCredit and Scuderia Ferrari HP.
“The collaboration between UniCredit and Scuderia Ferrari HP is about more than just sponsorships—it’s about creating unforgettable moments like this,” Vigna remarked. Orcel added, “Milan is the perfect place for the Drivers Presentation by UniCredit, as it shares the same electric atmosphere we experience in Monza every year. Let’s hope this sea of red brings good fortune for the season ahead.”
High-Speed Thrills in the Heart of Milan
One of the most highly anticipated moments of the evening arrived at precisely 17:15 when Leclerc and Hamilton strapped into the cockpits of the 2019 SF90 and the 2021 SF21, ready to ignite the streets of Milan. Leclerc was first to take centre stage, dazzling the thousands of spectators—including a strong contingent from the Scuderia Ferrari Clubs—with breathtaking doughnuts and perfectly executed manoeuvres. Meanwhile, the Ferrari pit crew demonstrated their lightning-fast precision with a series of rapid pit stops.
Hamilton then took over, following his teammate’s lead with equal flair, treating the crowd to thrilling burnouts and carefully choreographed spins. The spectacle captivated not just those in attendance but also viewers watching live on Sky Sports Italia, the event’s official Media Partner, and via the streaming platform NOW in Italy.
Drivers Presentation by UniCredit – A Passionate Address to the Fans
As the drivers wrapped up their street demo, they joined Ferrari’s Head of Development Drivers, Raffaele De Simone, for a few parade laps in a Ferrari SF90 Spider before taking to the stage. Fred Vasseur, the team’s charismatic leader, took the microphone to address the crowd, switching seamlessly between Italian and English.
“Thank you for your unwavering support and for being here today,” he said in Italian before continuing in English, “This square is truly special, and events like these remind us just how deep the passion for Ferrari runs. We are fully prepared for an exciting season, and I promise you—we will give it everything we’ve got.”
Leclerc, beaming from the overwhelming reception, shared his excitement: “Milan has once again delivered an unforgettable atmosphere. Feeling all this love from our fans gives us a huge boost for the season ahead. We’ve worked harder than ever over the winter to be in the best possible shape, and we’re hoping to deliver some great results—maybe even starting in Australia.” As the Italian national anthem played, Leclerc playfully promised to teach Hamilton the lyrics throughout the season.
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For Hamilton, this event was a milestone in his new chapter with Ferrari. Making his first official appearance in Italy as a Scuderia Ferrari HP driver, he was visibly moved by the overwhelming support. “Wearing red and experiencing this kind of energy is incredible,” he said, glancing at the historic Ferrari cars on display, including Michael Schumacher’s legendary F2004 and the 2006 248 F1. “Today is another first in what is already an unforgettable season for me. I can’t wait to get on track with this extraordinary team.” He also revealed he has begun learning Italian, joking that he might need some practice. “We have everything we need to fight for the World Championship, and I truly believe our fans can be our extra gear. I hope we’ll have plenty to celebrate together this year.”
Countdown to Melbourne
The Milan event was the final stop for Scuderia Ferrari HP before the team heads to Melbourne, where the 2025 Formula 1 season officially kicks off on 16 March at the iconic Albert Park circuit. With momentum building and the enthusiasm of the Tifosi behind them, Ferrari is ready to take on the challenge, fueled by passion, performance, and the unwavering support of its fans.
