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Lewis Hamilton completed his first test with Ferrari at Fiorano
Hamilton and Ferrari Hit by Testing Restrictions Ahead of 2025 F1 Season
Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari are facing testing limitations as they gear up for the 2025 Formula 1 season. Last week, the seven-time champion had his first run for Ferrari at their Fiorano circuit, piloting the 2023 SF-23 under F1’s Testing of Previous Car (TPC) regulations. These rules allow teams to conduct private sessions with cars at least two years old, ensuring no undue performance advantage.
Although Hamilton’s initial outing adhered to these guidelines, the restrictions will continue to influence Ferrari’s upcoming tests in Barcelona and a Pirelli tyre test scheduled for February.
Barcelona Testing Challenges
Ferrari’s test at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, running from January 28 to 30, will be affected by TPC rules. Teams are prohibited from operating two cars simultaneously, meaning Hamilton and teammate Charles Leclerc will have to share the SF-23.
With both drivers needing to cover over 900 kilometers (roughly 200 laps), alternating in a single car could limit their ability to gather sufficient data and refine their setups. While these constraints apply to all teams, Ferrari must carefully balance track time to ensure both drivers are adequately prepared for the season ahead.
Pirelli Tyre Test and Hamilton’s SF-24 Debut
Hamilton’s next appearance will take place during Pirelli’s tyre test on February 4-5, also at Barcelona. This time, he will drive Ferrari’s 2024 car, the SF-24, which achieved five victories last season with Leclerc and Carlos Sainz. The test focuses on Pirelli’s new tyre specifications for 2026, which will feature a 25mm narrower design.
Ferrari, alongside McLaren, will assist Pirelli in gathering data for their next-generation tyres. For Hamilton, this event marks his first drive in the SF-24 and an opportunity to familiarize himself with the car that delivered strong results in 2024.
Impact of Testing Regulations
F1’s testing rules, including the ban on simultaneous car use, aim to maintain fairness across the grid. However, these restrictions also pose logistical hurdles, particularly for teams looking to maximize preseason mileage. Ferrari’s ability to allocate track time effectively between Hamilton and Leclerc will be critical as they prepare to contend for the 2025 championship.
With limited testing opportunities, every lap will count as Ferrari works to optimize their performance and integrate Hamilton into their plans for the upcoming season.
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