Hamilton and former coach Angela Cullen reunite for Ferrari journey

Dominika Jordan
Jan 21, 2025, 10:17 AM ET

Hamilton reunites with former coach Andrea Cullen ahead of Ferrari debut.

In a noteworthy development in the world of Formula 1, seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton is set to reunite with his former performance coach, Angela Cullen, as he embarks on his inaugural season with Ferrari, sources have confirmed.

Cullen, a renowned physiotherapist hailing from New Zealand, was an integral part of Hamilton's career from 2016 until early 2023, accompanying him during his peak years with Mercedes. The duo parted ways ahead of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in 2023, subsequently seeing Cullen lend her expertise to Marcus Armstrong in the IndyCar circuit.

Rumors of Cullen's return to Hamilton's side gained momentum earlier this month when an intriguing post appeared on her Instagram. The image, shot on a ski slope, subtly displayed a red piste marker with the number 44, synonymous with Hamilton's racing identity. Following the post, Cullen has deactivated her Instagram account, further fueling speculation.

Upon their parting last year, Hamilton publicly expressed his gratitude to Cullen in a heartfelt Instagram post, stating: "For the last seven years @cullen_angela has been by my side, pushing me to be the best version of myself. I am a stronger athlete and a better person because of her. So today I hope you'll join me in wishing her the very best as she takes her next steps to pursue her dreams."

As Hamilton gears up for his debut with Ferrari, he has already kicked off the transition by visiting the Ferrari factory in Maranello on Monday. During his visit, he met with key figures such as chairman John Elkann and CEO Benedetto Vigna, and took the opportunity to acquaint himself with various departments within the renowned Italian team.

Plans are underway for Hamilton's maiden drive in a Ferrari F1 car, potentially starting as early as Wednesday, though dependent on weather conditions. Under F1 regulations, he has the green light to drive a car that is at least two years old, and Ferrari's own test track, Fiorano, located at their Maranello facility, serves as the likely venue. Alternative options nearby include the esteemed circuits of Mugello and Imola, should Fiorano's weather fail to cooperate.

Looking ahead, Hamilton's official introduction to the Ferrari 2025 car is anticipated to occur at its unveiling on February 19 at Fiorano. In the meantime, he will have the opportunity to acclimatize himself with the cutting-edge technology in Ferrari's simulator this week, providing a tantalizing preview of his upcoming venture with the Scuderia.

As Hamilton and Cullen rekindle their professional partnership, this new chapter promises to be an exhilarating one for both the driver and the storied Ferrari team as they aim to reclaim the pinnacle of Formula 1 racing.