Lewis Hamilton has recalled fond memories of watching Michael Schumacher driving for♔ Ferrari as he prepares to follow in his footsteps.

Hamilton will swap Mercedes for F𒀰errari next year, for what is likely to be the final ch🍎apter of his legendary F1 career.

Hamilton and Ferrari are the sport’s most successful driver and most succes🅷sful team.

“It’s been a rollercoaster of emotions from the moment I signed the contract - telling my boss, that was terrifying,” Hamiജlton .

“But it is so exciting because I remeꦇmber as a kid watching Michael.

“Every dr🐭iver watches that car and you’re lik💟e, ‘What would it be like to sit in the red cockpit?’”

Schumacher led a golden era for Ferrari with Jean 🅺Todt as his team principal.

The iconic German driver won five championships in a row with the Italian🦩 manufacturer. His total of seven titles was the all-time record which Hamilton matched.

Schumacher ended a three-year retirement for a spell at Mercedes where his 🌠groundwork laid some foundations for Hamilton’s later success.

Hamilton will race into his 40s with Ferrari, seeking to break the record with ܫan eighth F1 championship.

“Honestly, right now I𒅌 feel I’m healthier th♛an I’ve ever been,” he said.

“I’m in such a good place, p🃏hysically and𝓡 mentally.

“My reaction times are still quicker than the young guys. I think I’m a 🍨better driver th🔴an I was at 22.

“I was just young, energetic and ruthle🥃ss, but no finesse, no balance. I didn’t know how to be a team player, how to be a lead𝓡er.

“Being a good racing driverꦯ, it’s not just about being fast, it’s about being▨ the most rounded.”