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Hamilton Crashes Ferrari During Pre-Season Testing in Spain
Incident at Barcelona-Catalunya
Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time Formula 1 world champion, crashed his Ferrari during the team’s pre-season testing at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. The incident occurred on Wednesday, during Hamilton’s second day of testing at the Spanish circuit. Fortunately, he was uninjured.
Ferrari has not commented on the crash, which took place as Hamilton continues adapting to his new team after 12 years with Mercedes. The team remains unfazed, viewing the accident as a normal part of a driver learning the intricacies of a new car.
Testing Programmer and Restrictions
Hamilton is currently driving Ferrari’s 2023 car, the latest model he is permitted to test under Formula 1’s strict regulations. The sport limits current drivers to a maximum of 1,000km (621 miles) of testing with previous cars, a rule designed to maintain fairness across teams.
Before arriving in Barcelona, Hamilton completed 30 laps at Ferrari’s Fiorano test track on January 22. This week’s Barcelona test is a crucial step in helping him familiarize himself with the team’s procedures and working methods, particularly in collaboration with his race engineer, Riccardo Adami, and the engineering team.
Ferrari’s Approach to Hamilton’s Integration
Ferrari is focused on ensuring Hamilton transitions smoothly into the team before the season kicks off with the Australian Grand Prix from March 14-16. Although details of the test sessions remain private, the team is prioritizing Hamilton’s understanding of the car and working environment.
The Maranello-based team will give Hamilton further testing opportunities before their 2025 car launch, scheduled for February 19 at Fiorano. One of these sessions includes a Pirelli-run tyre test, aimed at helping develop tyres for the 2026 regulations.
Upcoming Ferrari and McLaren Tests
Next week, Ferrari will conduct another two-day test at Barcelona on February 4-5. This session will involve a 2025-spec car, modified to simulate the effects of new technical regulations set for 2026.
McLaren is also participating in a similar Pirelli tyre test at the Paul Ricard circuit in France. The data gathered from these tests will contribute to Pirelli’s tyre development for the upcoming regulation changes.
With limited testing time before the new season, Ferrari remains committed to optimizing Hamilton’s adaptation process, ensuring he is ready to compete at the highest level when the 2024 F1 season begins.
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