Ferrari’s Unwavering Legacy: Why Hamilton’s Black F40 Request Was Denied
By Team Dailyrevs April 4, 2025
Hamilton’s Vision vs. Ferrari’s Tradition
Hamilton requested a black Ferrari F40 for his first shoot as a tribute to his commitment to social justice.
Ferrari did not concede, upholding their traditions and their philosophy that “Ferrari stays while drivers go.”
Despite a rough start to the season, Hamilton remains optimistic about his future with the team.
A Landmark Move in Formula 1
Lewis Hamilton's transfer to Ferrari represented one of Formula 1 history's most landmark moves. With a dramatic inaugural photo outside the historic home of Enzo Ferrari, Hamilton appeared dressed in all-black attire, looking stylish and confident. However, as engaging as the picture was, it might have been even more iconic—if Ferrari had honored Hamilton's request to be taken to his first day in a black Ferrari F40.
A Symbolic Request Denied
Stories by Italian newspapers Autosprint and Corriere della Sera indicate that Hamilton envisioned the black F40 as an emblem of his support for social justice and diversity. As F1's sole Black driver with a long history of activism, the request carried deep personal and cultural significance.
But Ferrari emphatically said no. Why? A question of principle.
"Ferrari Remains While Drivers Come and Go"
The Maranello factory is famed for its old-world traditions. The Ferrari F40, a masterpiece of design created for the marque's 40th birthday and the last personally signed off by Enzo Ferrari, is ubiquitously tied to its fabled red color scheme. While black F40s do exist, Ferrari’s leadership was unwilling to undermine their heritage with customization—regardless of the high-profile request.
According to Autosprint writer Fulvio Solms:
"Not so much because an F40 was not on offer in the classic department, but for a matter of principle."
Moreover, Ferrari allegedly underscored their fundamental philosophy:
"Ferrari remains while drivers come and go."
This attitude speaks to the brand's identity—larger than any single driver, even one as powerful as Hamilton.
A Strong Start Despite Setbacks
Though his request for the black F40 was denied, Hamilton seems to be finding his footing in his new Ferrari life. The 2025 campaign has been no easy ride, with both Hamilton and teammate Charles Leclerc being threatened with disqualification in China for technical infringement.
However, Hamilton remains unfazed:
"I didn't feel like any frustration or anything afterwards. It is what it is. We take the highs and lows together as a team."
With his Ferrari experience still in its early stages, Hamilton's impact on the team—both on and off the circuit—will continue to evolve.
For a closer look at Ferrari Road Cars, Please Click Here.
Source : Autosprint