Hamilton’s Ferrari Crash: A Setback or…..read more

Lewis Hamilton’s early Ferrari stint took an unexpected turn when he crashed during a private test session in Barcelona. While such an incident might seem alarming at first glance, Formula 1 analyst Peter Windsor insists it’s actually a reason for Hamilton fans to celebrate.

With the seven-time World Champion making a high-profile switch from Mercedes to Ferrari for the 2025 season, anticipation surrounding his performance in red is at an all-time high. As part of Ferrari’s pre-season preparations, the team conducted a private three-day test at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, using the SF-23—Ferrari’s 2023 challenger. However, on the second morning, Hamilton lost control through the high-speed final turn, resulting in damage to the suspension and aerodynamic components. The incident meant that his new teammate, Charles Leclerc, was unable to complete his scheduled afternoon running.

Given Hamilton’s stature, the crash inevitably sparked speculation. Critics, including former Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto, Alpine advisor Flavio Briatore, and ex-F1 team boss Eddie Jordan, have already questioned Ferrari’s decision to replace Carlos Sainz with Hamilton. Some might interpret the crash as a sign of struggle, but Windsor strongly disagrees. He believes the incident proves just how comfortable Hamilton already feels in the Ferrari.

Why Hamilton’s Crash is Actually a Positive Sign

According to Windsor, Hamilton’s crash had nothing to do with an external factor like a bump on the track. Instead, it was purely down to the fact that Hamilton was pushing the car’s limits—something only a confident driver does.

“My take is that it was actually a very, very good test for Lewis, and I think all Lewis Hamilton fans can feel delighted at the way that test went,” Windsor explained.

“Yes, there was the shunt, but let’s look at the build-up to that shunt and the reasons for it. It was all tied to how good Lewis felt in the car and how he’s feeling within the team—he feels great in the team.”

Windsor also emphasized that Hamilton’s positive reaction to the Ferrari is particularly significant given the SF-23’s well-documented struggles. The 2023 Ferrari was not a championship-winning car, yet Hamilton already appears to have bonded with it better than he did with Mercedes’ cars over the past two seasons.

“He loved the feeling of feeling the road again,” Windsor added. “Actually being a part of the car and kind of being on top of the car and getting it to be a part of his DNA and what he does in a race car—he loved that.”

A Fresh Start with Ferrari

Hamilton’s move to Ferrari is one of the biggest shake-ups in recent F1 history. While his crash in testing may have raised eyebrows, Windsor sees it as an indicator that Hamilton is adapting quickly to his new environment. Rather than being cautious or tentative, the Briton was willing to push the Ferrari to its limit, a hallmark of his aggressive yet calculated driving style.

Meanwhile, Mercedes has moved on with their own bold decision—promoting young Italian sensation Kimi Antonelli to partner George Russell. The 18-year-old will have huge shoes to fill, stepping into a team where Hamilton was the cornerstone for over a decade.

For now, Hamilton’s journey with Ferrari has only just begun, and while a crash in testing isn’t ideal, it might just be the clearest signal yet that he’s ready to take on this new chapter with full force. If anything, Ferrari fans—and Hamilton supporters—should be more excited than ever.