Hamilton facing Ferrari BAN as new Abu Dhabi 2021 claim surfaces… read more
Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari are set to face a testing ban ahead of the 2025 Formula 1 season. The seven-time world champion recently underwent his first test for Ferrari at their private circuit, Fiorano, where he completed his first laps with the Scuderia in their 2023 car, the SF-23.
Hamilton’s initial test with Ferrari was conducted in accordance with F1’s TPC (Testing of Previous Car) rules, which dictate that teams can only use cars older than two years for private test sessions. This rule is designed to prevent any team from gaining a competitive advantage over their rivals.
However, the implications of these rules extend beyond Hamilton’s initial test with Ferrari. The team’s running during testing in Barcelona at the end of this month and the Pirelli tyre test in February will also be limited by the testing ban.
According to reports, Ferrari’s scheduled test days at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya are January 28, 29, and 30. However, the team’s running will be restricted by the F1 ban, which prohibits the use of multiple cars simultaneously. This means that Hamilton and his teammate, Charles Leclerc, will have to share a single SF-23 in Barcelona.
The testing ban is not unique to Ferrari, but rather a restriction imposed on all teams during testing. This means that all race teams and drivers will have to contend with the limitations imposed by the ban.
Hamilton and Leclerc still have over 900 kilometers left to complete in the SF-23, which translates to around 200 laps. However, the restriction on using multiple cars simultaneously may prove to be a challenge for the team.
In addition to the TPC, Hamilton will also participate in Pirelli’s tyre test in Barcelona on February 4 and 5. During this test, Hamilton will drive Ferrari’s 2024 car, the SF-24, and trial the 25mm narrower tyre configuration that will be used in the 2026 season.
Alongside McLaren, Hamilton and Leclerc will provide Pirelli with valuable data on the new tyre configuration. This will be Hamilton’s first outing in the SF-24, the car that won five grands prix with Leclerc and Carlos Sainz last season.
The testing ban and restrictions imposed by the F1 TPC rules will undoubtedly present challenges for Ferrari and Hamilton. However, the team is well-equipped to navigate these limitations and make the most of their testing opportunities.
As the 2025 Formula 1 season approaches, Ferrari and Hamilton will be looking to make a strong start. Despite the testing ban, the team is confident in their ability to prepare for the upcoming season and make a competitive bid for the championship.
In conclusion, Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari are set to face a testing ban ahead of the 2025 Formula 1 season. The team’s running during testing in Barcelona and the Pirelli tyre test in February will be limited by the F1 ban, which prohibits the use of multiple cars simultaneously. However, Ferrari is well-equipped to navigate these limitations and make the most of their testing opportunities.
