Vasseur said Hamilton was the “perfect fit” for Ferrari right now, while Leclerc thought the Briton was joining at the ideal point as the team’s mentality is now stronger than ever, in part thanks to Vasseur’s leadership. No longer in a rebuild, the championship is a realistic goal for Ferrari.

Lewis Hamilton says he is “exactly where I’m supposed to be” after an emotional first day on track in Ferrari’s new car.

Lewis Hamilton's impact at Ferrari has been laid bare by the Italian team's Formula 1 merchandise sales, which have surged by almost 400 per cent in the wake of the seven-time world champion joining t