Lewis Hamilton’s Tribute at Ristorante Montana – A Symbol of Italian Motorsport Culture

Seven-time Formula 1 world champion, Lewis Hamilton, has left an endearing message at the iconic Ristorante Montana, a restaurant nestled just beyond Ferrari‘s Fiorano test track in Maranello. This eatery, affectionately known as “the restaurant,” has been a beacon of Italian motorsport culture for decades, hosting racing legends from drivers to designers.

A Gathering Place for Racing Legends

The walls of Ristorante Montana’s dining area are adorned with memorabilia from across Italian racing history, including helmets, racing suits, and countless photos. Rossella Giannini, the heart of this location, is beloved, having received compliments from racing greats like Michael Schumacher himself.

A collection of signed napkins is close to the hearts of those who frequent the place, featuring signatures from Nigel Mansell, Kimi Räikkönen, David Coulthard, Jacques Villeneuve, and Felipe Massa. Carlos Sainz, now driving for Williams, has his signature on display, as does Charles Leclerc. As of this week, Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari‘s latest superstar driver, will join their ranks.

In anticipation of Hamilton’s arrival at Maranello earlier this year, a custom meal was prepared for the former Mercedes driver. Now, with one race under his belt, he’s been there multiple times to savor the Italian cuisine. Following a 10th-place finish in Australia, Hamilton was quick to return to the restaurant, leaving a thank you note on a napkin before he left.

Written in Italian, he wrote alongside his signature and racing number: “To Rossella, thank you for the food, very good!”

Redemption Awaits at Shanghai Grand Prix

Going into this weekend, Hamilton seeks redemption after a disappointing season opener. The driver has enjoyed success at Shanghai previously with six wins at the circuit, so he’ll be hoping to enter the sprint weekend with optimism fueled by experience.