Lewis Hamilton conducts run in 2024 Ferrari F1 car in Barcelona but still…read more
In a significant development during the Formula 1 off-season, Lewis Hamilton, who recently transitioned from Mercedes to Ferrari, conducted an extensive test of Ferrari’s 2024 Formula 1 car, the SF-24, at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. This session marked Hamilton’s inaugural experience with the SF-24, following previous tests in the 2023-spec SF-23.
The primary objective of this test was to assist Pirelli in developing new tyre compounds slated for introduction in the 2026 season. To simulate the anticipated 20% reduction in downforce under future regulations, Ferrari modified the SF-24 to lower its downforce levels, providing Pirelli with accurate data for their tyre development program.
Hamilton demonstrated impressive performance during the session, completing 87 laps with a fastest lap time of 1:15.93. This time was over one-tenth quicker than his teammate, Charles Leclerc, who completed 86 laps in a subsequent stint. Leclerc was initially scheduled to participate alongside Hamilton in the SF-23 earlier in the week. However, adverse weather conditions at Fiorano limited his running to just 14 laps, and Hamilton’s earlier crash in Barcelona further disrupted the testing schedule.
The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya was a hub of activity during this period, with McLaren also conducting Pirelli tyre tests using a modified version of their championship-winning MCL60, devoid of sponsorship decals. Lando Norris was behind the wheel for McLaren, completing a substantial 159 laps and recording a fastest lap time of 1:15.21. Norris was set to hand over testing duties to his teammate, Oscar Piastri, the following day.
This series of tests underscores the collaborative efforts between Formula 1 teams and Pirelli to ensure the successful development and integration of new tyre technologies in line with forthcoming regulatory changes. For Hamilton, these sessions provided valuable seat time in Ferrari machinery, facilitating his adaptation to the team’s vehicles and offering insights into the performance characteristics of both the SF-23 and SF-24 models.
The decision to utilize the SF-24 for this test was strategic, as it allowed Ferrari to gather pertinent data on how reduced downforce levels impact car performance. This information is crucial for both the team’s preparations for future seasons and for Pirelli’s tyre development process.
Hamilton’s transition to Ferrari has been a focal point in the Formula 1 community, and his active participation in these tests indicates a proactive approach to integrating with his new team. Despite the earlier setback due to the crash in Barcelona, Hamilton’s performance in the subsequent test sessions has been encouraging, showcasing his adaptability and commitment to contributing to Ferrari’s development efforts.
As teams continue to prepare for the upcoming season, these testing sessions play a pivotal role in fine-tuning car setups, understanding new tyre behaviours, and ensuring that drivers are well-acquainted with their machinery. The data collected from these tests will inform both car development and race strategies as teams aim to optimize performance under evolving regulations.
In summary, Lewis Hamilton’s recent test of the 2024 Ferrari F1 car in Barcelona represents a significant step in his integration into the Ferrari team and provides valuable data for both Ferrari and Pirelli as they prepare for future seasons. The collaborative efforts observed during these tests highlight the dynamic nature of Formula 1’s development landscape, with teams and partners working closely to navigate regulatory changes and technological advancements.
