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Hamilton Praises Ferrari’s Testing Performance but Cautions Against McLaren’s Rising Threat

With the 2025 Formula 1 season fast approaching, teams are working tirelessly to perfect their cars during pre-season testing at the Bahrain International Circuit. One of the most closely followed developments has been Lewis Hamilton’s highly anticipated debut with Scuderia Ferrari. The seven-time world champion has spoken positively about his new team’s performance in testing but has also sounded a note of caution about an emerging challenge from McLaren.

Ferrari’s Methodical Testing Strategy

Ferrari entered the three-day testing phase with a clear objective: to gather comprehensive data on their new SF-25 chassis to maximize both performance and reliability ahead of the season opener in Australia on March 16. The Italian team’s approach was evident in the sheer number of laps they completed—an impressive 385, translating to around 2,084 kilometers, roughly the equivalent of seven full Grand Prix races.

By covering such a substantial distance, Ferrari ensured they could thoroughly assess multiple aspects of their car, including aerodynamics, tire degradation, fuel efficiency, and overall reliability. Their structured and disciplined testing routine signaled their intent to be a serious contender in the 2025 championship battle.

The team’s strategy revolved around consistency rather than setting outright fastest laps. Ferrari’s engineers meticulously examined how different setups influenced the car’s handling, ensuring that they left no margin for error before the first race. This methodical approach highlighted their ambition to return to title-winning form.

Leclerc’s Initial Observations on the SF-25

Charles Leclerc took the wheel on the first morning of testing, focusing on evaluating the car’s balance and its response to various tire compounds. Ferrari primarily ran the C3 tire compound for much of the session, allowing Leclerc to complete multiple stints and assess different setups. Toward the end of his stint, he switched to the softer C4 compound for a brief five-lap run. However, his fastest lap of 1:30.811 was set using the more durable C3 tires, demonstrating Ferrari’s focus on race simulations rather than pure speed.

Leclerc’s feedback was instrumental in helping the team understand how the SF-25 performed under different track conditions. His analysis provided valuable insights to Ferrari’s engineers, enabling them to refine both their qualifying and race strategies. Ferrari’s disciplined testing regimen suggested that they were prioritizing consistency over chasing headline lap times—an approach that could pay dividends during the season.

Hamilton’s Verdict: Ferrari’s Strength and McLaren’s Rising Competitiveness

As Hamilton acclimated to his new surroundings at Ferrari, he expressed satisfaction with the team’s preparation and the SF-25’s potential. He praised Ferrari’s commitment and methodical approach but also acknowledged that they would face stiff competition—particularly from McLaren.

McLaren’s performance during testing caught the attention of many in the paddock, and Hamilton was no exception. Their impressive pace suggested that they could emerge as a major contender in the 2025 season. Hamilton, who has years of experience fighting at the front, recognized that McLaren’s steady progress in recent seasons, combined with their strong showing in Bahrain, signaled that the battle for supremacy could be more intense than ever.

Hamilton’s move to Ferrari has been one of the biggest storylines of the off-season, and his early impressions indicate that he believes the team is in a solid position. However, his cautious optimism suggests that Ferrari must remain vigilant, as the competition at the front looks closer than it has been in years.

What This Means for the Upcoming Season

The pre-season tests in Bahrain have offered a preview of what’s to come when the championship begins in Melbourne. Ferrari’s high mileage during testing underscores their confidence in the car’s durability, but whether they have the outright speed to consistently challenge for wins remains an open question.

Hamilton’s remarks about McLaren’s form indicate that 2025 could feature a fiercely competitive fight at the front, with multiple teams vying for race victories. If McLaren’s testing pace translates into race performance, they could pose a serious threat to Ferrari and Red Bull.

As the first race on March 16 draws near, excitement continues to build. Will Hamilton’s switch to Ferrari bring him back to championship glory, or will McLaren and other rivals prove too strong? The answers will begin to unfold when the lights go out in Melbourne.