British Driver Phil Hanson Joins Ferrari as Official Factory Driver
In a significant move for British motorsport, driver Phil Hanson has officially signed a multi-year deal to become a factory driver for the iconic Italian racing team, Ferrari. The 26-year-old, who hails from the UK, expressed immense pride and honour at joining the prestigious brand, which he has admired since his childhood years.
Le Mans Victory and WEC Success
Hanson's signing comes on the back of a highly successful season, where he clinched victory at the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2025. He achieved this remarkable feat as part of the privateer AF Corse team, racing alongside former Formula 1 driver Robert Kubica and Yifiei Ye. This triumph at one of the world's most challenging endurance races showcased Hanson's skill and resilience on the global stage.
Furthermore, Hanson and his teammates secured a commendable second-place finish in the World Endurance Championship (WEC), narrowly behind the official Ferrari team. This consistent performance in top-tier competitions has undoubtedly played a crucial role in attracting Ferrari's attention and securing this coveted factory driver position.
Ferrari's Confidence in Hanson
Antonello Coletta, Ferrari's global head of endurance, warmly welcomed Hanson to the team, highlighting the driver's consistent and excellent track record. Coletta expressed strong confidence in Hanson's ability to contribute to Ferrari's future successes in endurance racing, emphasising that his skills and dedication align perfectly with the team's high standards and ambitious goals.
Hanson, in turn, has shared his excitement about the opportunity to build on his past achievements with Ferrari. He looks forward to collaborating with the team's engineers and fellow drivers to push the boundaries of performance and secure more victories in upcoming championships.
Impact on British Motorsport
This appointment marks a proud moment for British motorsport, as Hanson joins the ranks of elite drivers representing Ferrari. His journey from winning Le Mans with a privateer team to becoming an official factory driver for a legendary marque like Ferrari serves as an inspiration to aspiring racers across the UK. It underscores the importance of perseverance, talent, and seizing opportunities in the highly competitive world of professional racing.
As Hanson embarks on this new chapter with Ferrari, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how he adapts to the team's dynamics and contributes to their endurance racing campaigns. With his proven capabilities and Ferrari's resources, the partnership holds great promise for future triumphs on the track.
