Hamilton Calls Ferrari Debut 'most Exciting Period Of My Life'

Lewis Hamilton is gearing up for what he calls the "most exciting period" of his life as he prepares to make his highly anticipated debut with Ferrari at the Australian Grand Prix this weekend. However, the seven-time Formula 1 world champion has cautioned that adapting to his new car will take time.

After 12 years with Mercedes, Hamilton's switch to Ferrari sent shockwaves through the motorsport world. Since officially joining the Scuderia in January, the 40-year-old has logged 162 laps in Bahrain testing, but he admits that it's still difficult to gauge Ferrari's competitiveness.

Obviously three days in the car, difficult to know where we stand with everyone else. But we just try to keep our heads down and just focus on our job, Hamilton said in Melbourne ahead of the season opener.

Ferrari has endured a long title drought, last winning the constructors' championship in 2008 and the drivers' title in 2007 with Kimi Raikkonen. Despite Hamilton's arrival, he has urged caution about expecting immediate success.

Hamilton pointed out the adjustment from Mercedes power to Ferrari power, noting differences in vibration, feel, and team operations.