Leclerc and Hamilton 'paint' Milan in the red of Ferrari

The event, organised in partnership with UniCredit, marked Ferrari’s return to Milan for the first time in six years. Fans had gathered from the early hours to secure front-row spots and best view of Hamilton and Leclerc, with a DJ set entertaining the crowd before the Scuderia's CEO Benedetto Vigna and UniCredit CEO Andrea Orcel took to the stage.

Vigna emphasised the significance of the partnership: “The collaboration between UniCredit and Scuderia Ferrari HP is also about special events like this. Milan is absolutely the right place for this, as our partner’s headquarters are here and in Milan you can feel the same atmosphere we enjoy every year in Monza.”

Orcel added: “Let’s hope this red-painted square is a good omen for a great season.”

One of the highlights of the evening was a street demonstration featuring the two Ferrari drivers. At 17:15, Leclerc and Hamilton took to the cockpit of the 2019 SF90 and 2021 SF21, respectively, to perform a series of stunts.

Leclerc was first to hit the tarmac, executing doughnuts and high-speed passes while Ferrari mechanics performed rapid pit stops. Hamilton followed with his own display, lighting up the streets with burnouts and spins, delighting fans lining the barriers and those watching live on Sky Sport Italia and streaming platform NOW in Italy.

While the two drivers later toured the square in a Ferrari SF90 Spider, Team Principal Fred Vasseur addressed the crowd, delivering a message of gratitude and determination.

“Thank you for your unwavering support and for being here today,” he said in Italian before switching to English. “This square is really something special and events like today’s remind us how strong is the passion for our team. We are all set for an exciting season and I can assure you we will give it our best shot.”

Leclerc took to the stage next and praised the atmosphere in Milan: “Milan has delivered an incredible atmosphere again today. Feeling all this love gives us a real boost for the coming championship. Over the winter, we have worked harder than ever to be in the best possible shape, and we hope we can get some great results, maybe already in Australia.”

As the Italian national anthem played, Leclerc promised to teach Hamilton the words over the course of the season. For the Briton, the event marked his first official public appearance in Italy as a Ferrari driver. The seven-time world champion was visibly moved by the reception.

“Wearing red and experiencing an event like this is something special, as is being here with you in front of some historic cars, including ones that Michael Schumacher raced,” he said, referring to the F2004 and the 2006 248 F1 on display.

Hamilton reflected on the significance of the occasion, saying: “Today is another first to go with others I’m experiencing in what is already an unforgettable season for me. I can’t wait to get on track with this extraordinary team.”

He also revealed that he is currently learning Italian, adding: “I think we have everything we need to fight for the World Championship, and I also believe that you fans can be our extra gear. I hope we will have a lot of fun together.”

With the Milan event concluded, Ferrari now sets its sights on the 2025 Formula 1 season opener in Melbourne on 16 March, where Leclerc and Hamilton will begin their campaign at the Albert Park Circuit.