Did Kobe Bryant's visit to Enzo Ferrari House inspired Lewis Hamilton to sign with Ferrari

Kobe Bryant, a car enthusiast and icon of the Los Angeles Lakers basketball team, was asked to test drive the world headquarters of the famous supercar manufacturer Ferrari in Maranello, Italy. Only a few months before his invitation, Kobe had announced his retirement from the professional basketball scene.

But after a lifetime of playing basketball professionally, Ferrari gave him another once-in-a-lifetime chance: a chance to test drive some of their newest models. The famous athlete agreed, and based on the pictures of his visit, it seems like he had a great time and was able to have a test drive of some of the fastest supercars available from the Italian company. The Ferrari F12dtf was the first vehicle that the baller drove on the Maranello track.

Kobe paid close attention to his test drives when he was at Ferrari headquarters, but he also asked questions about the many car-making and design techniques for which the Italian supercar manufacturer is renowned. He seems to have learned a lot about Ferrari's background and brand values in addition to having the opportunity to drive some of their fast cars.

Throwback to when Kobe Bryant visited the Enzo Ferrari House in Maranello!

Five years since we lost a true legend. Rest in peace, Kobe. ❤️‍🩹 #f1 #formula1 #sportsinfoxtreme #KobeBryant #lewishamilton #ferrari #Scuderiaferrari #maranello pic.twitter.com/AWXOH0A1yE

— SportsInfo Xtreme (@Sportsinfo22073) January 27, 2025

Lewis Hamilton's first race with Ferrari will be at   Australian Grand Prix

Years later Lewis Hamilton left Mercedes and joined Ferrari for the 2025 Formula One season. Lewis Hamilton's new driving partner at Ferrari will be Charles Leclerc. The seven-time Formula 1 champion used the historic Ferrari F40 in a classic-themed picture session to commemorate his first day at Ferrari's Maranello headquarters.

After more than ten years with Mercedes, Lewis Hamilton's move to the storied Italian team was perfectly captured in this cinematic homage. Lewis Hamilton is anticipated to make his debut during pre-season testing in Bahrain, which is set for February 26–28, so fans who are excited to see him in Ferrari red won't have to wait long. After that, Hamilton will formally start his campaign with Ferrari in the Australian Grand Prix, which takes place from March 14–16, to kick off the 2025 Formula 1 season.