F1 TRACK DEBUT: Lewis Hamilton Takes the Wheel but made a U-TURN due to…. Read more
Lewis Hamilton Takes the Wheel: Ferrari’s SF-26 Makes Track Debut at Fiorano
In a highly anticipated moment for Formula 1 fans worldwide, Lewis Hamilton drove Ferrari’s brand-new SF-26 for the first time today, January 23, 2026, at the team’s private Fiorano test track in Italy. The shakedown marked the initial on-track outing for the Scuderia’s challenger in the groundbreaking 2026 Formula 1 season, which introduces sweeping regulation changes aimed at creating more agile, sustainable, and exciting racing.
The SF-26, unveiled earlier in the day by Scuderia Ferrari HP, represents the team’s bold entry into a new era of F1. These regulations bring smaller, lighter cars, a greater emphasis on electric power (with nearly 50% of the total output coming from the MGU-K), active aerodynamics, and the removal of certain drag reduction systems in favor of more dynamic overtaking opportunities. Ferrari’s design incorporates a striking return to a glossy, intense red livery with subtle white accents, evoking the classic Ferrari heritage while adapting to the modern aesthetic demands.
Hamilton, the seven-time world champion who joined Ferrari ahead of the 2025 season, was given the honor of conducting the car’s maiden laps. Amid cool, misty, and damp conditions at Fiorano—located near the team’s Maranello headquarters—the British driver completed an installation lap and a few additional circuits, totaling around 15 kilometers (approximately five laps) in a limited demonstration run. He was fitted with extreme-wet Pirelli demonstration tires to handle the tricky weather, and the session allowed a first taste of the car’s active aero elements, including movable front and rear wing flaps that adjust for performance and efficiency.
Teammate Charles Leclerc also took to the track later in the day, sharing duties as the pair began familiarizing themselves with the machine that will carry their hopes for the upcoming campaign. The event was closely monitored by fans gathered near the circuit, with videos and photos quickly circulating online showing Hamilton’s distinctive yellow helmet in action and the SF-26 navigating the tight, technical Fiorano layout.
Hamilton described the experience as part of a “massive challenge” posed by the biggest regulation shift in recent F1 history. In comments released by Ferrari, he highlighted the fascination of developing the car under these rules, noting the complete rethink required in architecture, power units, and handling characteristics. After a difficult 2025—his first year with the team, where neither he nor Leclerc secured a podium or victory—these early runs symbolize a fresh start and renewed optimism.
Team principal Fred Vasseur emphasized Ferrari’s unity and determination, stating the squad is “more united than ever” following the previous season’s struggles. The 2025 campaign saw Ferrari fall short of expectations, but the new regulations offer a level playing field where clever engineering and execution could propel the iconic team back to the front. Vasseur praised the seamless integration of Hamilton’s experience with Leclerc’s speed and the technical team’s efforts in delivering the SF-26 on schedule.
The Fiorano shakedown, while brief and non-competitive, provided valuable initial data on systems integration, reliability, and basic drivability. Early footage released by Ferrari, including onboard clips of Hamilton, showed the car sounding different—louder in some aspects due to power unit changes—while appearing more compact and nimble than its predecessors. Speculation arose from leaked videos of the car stopping briefly on the straight, but the team quickly clarified it was part of the planned program rather than a breakdown.
This milestone comes ahead of official pre-season testing next week in Barcelona, where all teams will run extensively under closer scrutiny. For Ferrari, the goal is clear: capitalize on the regulation reset to end a championship drought that has frustrated the tifosi for years. Hamilton’s presence adds extra intrigue—could this be the year he claims an elusive eighth title in the Prancing Horse’s colors?
As the SF-26 rolled back into the garage, the passion of the Ferrari faithful was evident. Fans waved from bridges overlooking the track, and social media buzzed with excitement over the first glimpses of the red rocket in motion. With Hamilton and Leclerc at the helm, the Scuderia enters 2026 not just as a participant, but as a genuine contender ready to roar back to prominence.
The journey has just begun, but today’s debut at Fiorano has set the stage for what promises to be one of the most transformative seasons in Formula 1 history. Forza Ferrari!
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