Lewis Hamilton conducts run in 2024 Ferrari F1 car in Barcelona

Lewis Hamilton conducts run in 2024 Ferrari F1 car in Barcelona but still…read more

In a notable development during the Formula 1 off-season, seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton took part in a significant test session with Ferrari at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. Hamilton, who recently made a high-profile switch from Mercedes to Ferrari, got his first extensive run in the SF-24, Ferrari’s 2024 Formula 1 car. This test followed his previous outings in the SF-23, Ferrari’s 2023-spec car.

The primary objective of this test session was to assist Pirelli in developing new tyre compounds set for introduction in the 2026 Formula 1 season. To ensure accurate data collection, Ferrari modified the SF-24 to reduce its downforce levels, simulating the expected aerodynamic conditions under future regulations. This adaptation was crucial for Pirelli, as it allowed them to assess how the new tyres would perform under reduced aerodynamic loads.

Hamilton’s session was productive, as he completed 87 laps around the Barcelona circuit, setting a fastest lap time of 1:15.93. His time was over a tenth of a second quicker than that of his Ferrari teammate, Charles Leclerc, who later completed 86 laps in a separate stint. Leclerc was originally scheduled to take part in an earlier test with Hamilton in the SF-23 at Ferrari’s Fiorano test track. However, poor weather conditions limited his running to just 14 laps. Additionally, Hamilton’s crash in a previous session at Barcelona disrupted Ferrari’s initial testing plans, causing adjustments to the schedule.

The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya was a hub of activity during this period, with McLaren also participating in Pirelli’s tyre development program. The team ran a modified version of their championship-winning MCL60, notably without sponsorship decals. McLaren’s Lando Norris was behind the wheel for this test, completing an impressive 159 laps and recording a fastest lap of 1:15.21. Norris was set to hand over testing duties to his teammate, Oscar Piastri, the following day.

These collaborative test sessions highlight the close cooperation between Formula 1 teams and Pirelli in ensuring the successful development of new tyre technologies ahead of regulatory changes. The tests also provided Hamilton with valuable track time in a Ferrari, allowing him to gain further insights into the team’s cars and their performance characteristics.

Ferrari’s decision to use the SF-24 for this test was a strategic move, enabling the team to collect crucial data on how reduced downforce levels impact the car’s handling and performance. This information is not only beneficial for Ferrari’s future development efforts but also for Pirelli as they fine-tune their tyre compounds for the new regulations.

Hamilton’s move to Ferrari has been one of the biggest storylines in Formula 1, and his active participation in these tests signals a determined effort to integrate himself into his new team. Despite the earlier setback from his crash, Hamilton’s strong performance in subsequent testing sessions demonstrates his adaptability and commitment to Ferrari’s development program.

As teams continue to prepare for the upcoming Formula 1 season, these test sessions play a crucial role in refining car setups, understanding tyre behaviour, and helping drivers acclimate to their machines. The data collected will influence both car development and race strategies, ensuring teams are well-prepared for evolving regulations and competition.

Hamilton’s latest test run in Barcelona represents an important step in his transition to Ferrari while also providing essential technical data for both Ferrari and Pirelli. The collaboration between teams and partners during these sessions reflects the dynamic nature of Formula 1, where continuous development and adaptation are key to staying competitive.