Hamilton reflects on 'grateful' China trip after first Ferrari podium

Lewis Hamilton celebrated a landmark Chinese Grand Prix weekend by sharing a personal collection of photos from Shanghai, days after securing his first podium finish for Ferrari. The seven-time world champion expressed deep gratitude for his time in China, capping off a period that also saw the 'F1' film he co-produced win an Academy Award.

Why it matters:

Hamilton's emotional post and successful weekend mark a significant personal and professional milestone in his high-profile transition to Ferrari. After a challenging start to his Scuderia career, securing a podium—especially in a hard-fought battle with teammate Charles Leclerc—provides tangible proof of progress and integration within the team, boosting morale for both the driver and the Tifosi.

The details:

• On social media, Hamilton posted a series of images from his China trip with the caption: “More from 🇨🇳 What a week! I’m forever grateful for the time I get to spend here, on track and off. Can’t wait to come back.”
• The photos offered a personal glimpse into his weekend, including shots with fans and team members, highlighting his connection to the Chinese Grand Prix venue.
• Among the people featured was his mother, Carmen Larbalestier, who accompanied him on the trip. Former F1 driver David Coulthard noted he met her traveling home from Shanghai, reportedly “without the kids.”
• The weekend's on-track achievement was clinching third place at the Shanghai International Circuit, fending off pressure from teammate Leclerc to stand on the podium for the first time wearing Ferrari red.
• The professional success extended beyond the track, with the 'F1' movie, which Hamilton helped produce, winning an Oscar for Best Visual Effects at the 98th Academy Awards.

What's next:

The positive momentum from China provides a confidence boost as the F1 calendar moves forward. Hamilton will look to build on this first podium result to close the performance gap to the front runners and target a maiden victory with Ferrari. His expressed eagerness to return to China also underscores the event's personal significance to him on the F1 schedule.