Lewis Hamilton test ends with ‘held in high regard’ replacement

Lewis Hamilton test ends with ‘held in high regard’ replacement taking…read more

Lewis Hamilton’s testing stint with Ferrari at the Circuit de Catalunya has concluded after Day Two, marking the end of his involvement in the three-day session. Following Hamilton’s run, Ferrari’s SF-23 will be handed over to potential reserve drivers for the 2025 season, with the exact line-up still to be finalized.

Hamilton, who had been in action for two days, is now set to make way for Ferrari’s young talents, with the third day dedicated to giving Italian driver Antonio Giovinazzi and Swedish driver Fredrik Vesti the chance to get behind the wheel of the 2023 SF-23. Giovinazzi, who has previous F1 experience, will use this opportunity to get some additional track time, while Vesti is aiming to gather the necessary miles to secure his FIA Super Licence.

Vesti, a Formula 2 driver, is targeting a spot in the F1 grid, and his participation in this session forms part of his preparation for the upcoming season. Vesti is expected to take part in Ferrari’s mandatory young driver FP1 sessions later in the year, similar to what was done by Ferrari’s rising star, Oliver Bearman. Vesti is regarded highly by Ferrari, who see him as one of the promising talents for the future.

Hamilton’s test at Ferrari follows his confirmed move to the Scuderia for the 2025 F1 season, where he will partner Charles Leclerc after replacing Carlos Sainz. The seven-time World Champion signed a multi-year deal with Ferrari in February 2024, although the exact duration has not been publicly confirmed, though it’s widely reported to be three years. This marks a significant step in Hamilton’s illustrious career, as he transitions to a new chapter with one of F1’s most storied teams.

Ferrari’s announcement of Hamilton’s arrival was met with excitement, as it marks the beginning of a new era for the team. Over the past week, Hamilton has been seen at Ferrari’s Maranello headquarters, meeting with staff and engaging in promotional activities. His first laps in a Ferrari F1 car have been well-documented, signaling the start of his journey with the team.

Despite his excitement, there remains some uncertainty surrounding Ferrari’s official reserve driver for 2025. While Giovinazzi and Vesti will take part in this test session, it’s still unclear who will officially fill the role of Ferrari’s reserve driver for the upcoming season.

Hamilton will be back on track next month for a Pirelli tyre test, driving a mule Ferrari F1 car. He will also take part in testing for Ferrari’s 2025 challenger, Project 677, on February 19, continuing his preparation for the upcom

ing season.