The other Ferrari F1 test debut being kept hidden for...read more

The other Ferrari F1 test debut being kept hidden for…read more

Ferrari has remained tight-lipped about a recent Formula 1 test debut by Dino Beganovic, a key member of its Driver Academy. Unlike the widely covered tests involving established drivers like Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, Beganovic’s outing has been kept under wraps, with no official photos or acknowledgment from the team. The secrecy surrounding his test has led to considerable curiosity, especially given Beganovic’s rising profile in Ferrari’s junior ranks.

The Swedish driver made his F1 debut during the recent Barcelona test, following the conclusion of a program with Hamilton and Leclerc. While the team did not deny that Beganovic participated, no details have been shared about his specific role in the session. It is believed that Beganovic shared the car with Antonio Giovinazzi, another Ferrari tester, on the Thursday following Hamilton’s early departure from the event after a crash.

This level of secrecy is unusual, especially when compared to Ferrari’s previous handling of junior drivers. Drivers like Mick Schumacher and Ollie Bearman have often participated in private tests and had their outings documented publicly. In Beganovic’s case, however, the test debut has been kept quiet, which might reflect Ferrari’s cautious approach toward their junior drivers. Managing expectations and avoiding excessive scrutiny is becoming increasingly common for teams, particularly with young talents. The lack of fanfare could simply be a measure to protect the driver and allow him to develop away from the spotlight.

Beganovic’s testing outing is particularly interesting given the circumstances around his development within Ferrari’s ranks. The 21-year-old is set to compete in Formula 2 for the 2025 season with Hitech and is seen as a potential future F1 prospect. Last year, he had a mixed campaign in Formula 3, finishing sixth in the championship, the same position he held in his rookie season. Despite this, Ferrari saw enough potential in his performance, particularly his strong showing in the final races of the season in Formula 2. During a late cameo with DAMS, Beganovic impressed by finishing in the top 10 in all four races and securing a podium finish.

Ferrari’s decision to continue supporting him, despite his relatively disappointing F3 season, reflects their confidence in his abilities and future potential. With Bearman now having a full-time F1 seat at Haas, Beganovic has emerged as Ferrari’s most senior junior driver, which could signal a larger role for him within the team’s future plans.

Beganovic’s performance during his F1 test suggests that he may soon be considered for further opportunities, including Friday practice sessions and potential post-season tests, like the one in Abu Dhabi. These outings would serve as stepping stones to a more prominent role within the team. Additionally, the possibility of him acting as a reserve driver has been speculated, mirroring the role that Bearman played for Ferrari and Haas last year. However, it is more likely that Ferrari will retain options on both Bearman and Giovinazzi while also considering Beganovic for future opportunities.

In any case, Beganovic’s quiet but significant progress suggests that Ferrari sees him as an important part of its long-term strategy in developing future F1 drivers. His ability to handle the pressures of such a role while balancing his F2 commitments will be key as Ferrari continues to shape its driver lineup for the s

easons ahead.