Hamilton and Ferrari Face Testing Restrictions Before 2025 F1 Season
Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari are set to encounter testing restrictions as they prepare for the 2025 Formula 1 season. Last Wednesday, the seven-time world champion took his first laps for Ferrari at their Fiorano circuit, driving the 2023 SF-23 under F1’s TPC (Testing of Previous Car) regulations. These rules allow teams to use cars that are at least two years old for private sessions, ensuring no team gains a competitive edge.
While Hamilton’s initial test adhered to these guidelines, the regulations will continue to impact Ferrari’s activities during upcoming testing events in Barcelona and a Pirelli tyre test in February.
Ferrari’s Testing Plan in Barcelona
Ferrari is scheduled to test at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya from January 28 to 30, but their program will be constrained by F1’s TPC restrictions. The rules prevent teams from running two cars simultaneously, requiring Hamilton and teammate Charles Leclerc to alternate in the same SF-23.
This limitation affects all teams, not just Ferrari, and poses logistical challenges. Both drivers still need to cover over 900 kilometers in the SF-23, equating to approximately 200 laps. Sharing a single car may hinder their ability to complete optimal testing mileage, potentially impacting their preseason preparations.
Pirelli Tyre Test and Hamilton’s First SF-24 Drive
Hamilton will next get behind the wheel on February 4 and 5 during Pirelli’s tyre test at Barcelona. For this event, he will drive Ferrari’s 2024 car, the SF-24, which secured five victories last season with Leclerc and Carlos Sainz. The focus of the test will be on Pirelli’s 2026 specification tyres, which are 25mm narrower.
Ferrari will join McLaren in supplying data for the tyre manufacturer as it works on the next-generation design. This outing will mark Hamilton’s debut in the SF-24 and his first opportunity to experience the car that achieved considerable success in 2024.
Broader Implications of Testing Rules
The restrictions imposed by F1’s testing regulations, including the ban on simultaneous car usage, reflect efforts to maintain fairness among teams. However, they create challenges for drivers and teams aiming to maximize their preseason programs. For Ferrari, managing the running time between Hamilton and Leclerc under these constraints will be crucial as they seek to optimize their performance ahead of the 2025 season.
