Breaking: Hamilton Completes latest Ferrari tests in Barcelona with more tra…read more
Breaking: Hamilton Completes latest Ferrari tests in Barcelona with more tra…read more
Seven-time Formula 1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton has taken another step in his transition to Ferrari, completing a private test at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. Following his high-profile switch from Mercedes after 12 seasons, Hamilton spent the afternoon behind the wheel of a 2023-spec Ferrari as part of his acclimatization process.
This marks Hamilton’s second test with Ferrari, having previously completed 30 laps at Fiorano as part of his initial adaptation to the team. In Barcelona, he split track time with teammate Charles Leclerc, who ran the morning session. Both drivers are expected to continue testing over the next two days, weather permitting, as Ferrari focuses on helping Hamilton adjust to his new environment.
These private sessions are crucial for Hamilton to familiarize himself with Ferrari’s race operations, cockpit ergonomics, pedal feel, and steering wheel settings. However, under Formula 1’s Testing of Previous Cars (TPC) regulations, Ferrari is limited to 1,000 kilometers of private testing mileage for race drivers. Before this session, the team had approximately 800 kilometers remaining in their allocation.
Looking ahead, Ferrari will return to Barcelona on February 4 and 5 for a Pirelli tyre test aimed at developing compounds for the 2026 season. McLaren will also participate, though it remains unclear which drivers will take part. Hamilton is expected to get additional track time, potentially driving a modified version of Ferrari’s 2024 car to comply with Pirelli’s testing requirements.
Hamilton and Leclerc will have their first official outing in Ferrari’s 2025 challenger at the team’s launch event at Fiorano on February 19. This follows Ferrari’s F1 75 season launch at The O2 in London on February 18.
As Hamilton settles into his new team after a long and successful tenure at Mercedes, these early test sessions will be instrumental in ensuring a smooth transition. His move to Ferrari has generated significant anticipation, with fans eager to see how he adapts and what the future holds for the legendary Italian team.
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