Breaking: Cause for Hamilton’s Barcelona crash revealed ‘it was due to…read more
Bump Likely Cause of Hamilton’s Barcelona Crash
Lewis Hamilton’s high-speed crash at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya during Ferrari’s Testing of Previous Cars (TPC) session was likely caused by a track bump, according to reports. The incident, which occurred in the final corner of the track, forced Ferrari to adjust its testing schedule and cancel Charles Leclerc’s planned afternoon run.
Ferrari had initially begun their test program at Fiorano last Wednesday before moving to Barcelona, where they aimed to take advantage of improved weather conditions. Leclerc was behind the wheel of the SF-23 on Tuesday morning, with Hamilton taking over in the afternoon. The plan was for them to switch roles the following day, but the seven-time world champion’s accident disrupted the schedule.
The crash took place in the third sector of the circuit, an area known for its challenging bumps. According to Italian publication AutoRacer, one such bump was “probably” responsible for Hamilton losing control and colliding with the barriers. The damage to the SF-23 was significant, prompting Ferrari to halt Leclerc’s afternoon session on Wednesday. However, testing resumed on Thursday with reserve driver Antonio Giovinazzi and F2 junior Dino Beganovic stepping in to continue the program.
The issue of bumps in the final corner of the Barcelona circuit has been noted before. During the 2023 Spanish Grand Prix, Williams driver Logan Sargeant suffered a similar incident, losing control of his car after hitting a bump and sliding into the gravel before crashing into the barriers.
Ferrari’s Upcoming Testing Schedule
Despite the setback, Ferrari will remain at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya next week for a Pirelli tyre test, where they will be joined by McLaren. This test will be crucial for evaluating Pirelli’s 2026 tyre compounds, which will retain 18-inch rims but introduce narrower dimensions. The front tyres will be 25mm thinner, while the rears will be reduced by 30mm in width compared to the 2025 versions.
The tyre test will also mark an important milestone for Hamilton, as it will be his first opportunity to drive Ferrari’s 2024 challenger, the SF-24. Unlike regular TPC sessions, Pirelli tests allow teams to use their current-season cars, giving Hamilton an early chance to familiarize himself with the machinery he will race in the upcoming Formula 1 season.
Ferrari and McLaren’s participation in the test will provide valuable data for both teams and Pirelli as they develop tyres for the new regulations set to take effect in 2026.
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