Lewis Hamilton Causes ‘Serious Damage’ to Ferrari After Crashing today’s Barcelona…read more
In a significant setback during pre-season preparations, seven-time Formula One World Champion Lewis Hamilton was involved in a high-speed crash during Ferrari’s private testing session at the Circuit de Catalunya in Barcelona on January 29, 2025. This incident marks only his second testing session with the Scuderia since his high-profile move from Mercedes.
The testing, conducted behind closed doors, saw Hamilton lose control of the modified SF-23—a version of Ferrari’s 2023 car—resulting in a collision with the barriers. According to a source cited by ESPN, Hamilton was uninjured in the accident. However, the vehicle sustained significant damage, particularly to its suspension and aerodynamic components, necessitating its return to the garage via a tow truck. The extent of the damage is expected to cause substantial delays in Ferrari’s testing schedule.
This incident is reminiscent of Hamilton’s previous experiences during team transitions. Notably, in January 2007, ahead of his rookie season with McLaren, Hamilton was involved in a high-speed crash in Valencia. Similarly, in February 2013, during his initial testing with Mercedes in Jerez, he experienced another crash. These past incidents highlight the challenges drivers often face when acclimating to new machinery and team dynamics.
Despite the setback, Ferrari remains optimistic. The team believes that the incident will not adversely affect the remainder of their testing program. Both Hamilton and his new teammate, Charles Leclerc, have been alternating driving duties during these sessions, aiming to fine-tune the car’s performance ahead of the 2025 season opener in Australia this March.
Hamilton’s transition to Ferrari has been one of the most talked-about moves in recent Formula One history. His initial test with the team took place at the Fiorano Circuit in Maranello, Italy, where he completed approximately 30 laps in the SF-23. This session was designed to help him acclimate to the new car and team environment. However, reports from Motorsport.com indicated that Hamilton faced challenges with the car’s pedal configuration during this test, leading to minor errors on track. These issues underscore the adaptation process even seasoned drivers like Hamilton must undergo when joining a new team.
The recent crash in Barcelona has inevitably raised concerns among fans and analysts. David Coulthard, a former Formula One driver, expressed apprehension regarding Hamilton’s current form. He noted that Hamilton’s performance in the 2024 season was below expectations, with the Briton finishing seventh in the drivers’ standings and often being out-qualified by his then-teammate, George Russell. Coulthard emphasized that such a decline could be worrisome for Ferrari as they prepare for the upcoming season.
As the team assesses the damage and investigates the cause of the crash, the focus remains on ensuring that both drivers are well-prepared for the season ahead. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks in motorsport and the continuous challenges teams and drivers face in the pursuit of excellence.
