Lewis Hamilton ‘Excited’ to Test Ferrari’s New Upgrade Package in Bahrain
Formula 1 legend Lewis Hamilton has expressed his excitement about trying out Ferrari’s latest upgrade package as the team prepares for the Bahrain Grand Prix. The seven-time world champion, who will be joining Scuderia Ferrari in 2025, has been closely observing the Italian team’s developments and is reportedly thrilled by the progress they’ve made ahead of the first major round of car upgrades this season.
Though Hamilton is still driving for Mercedes in the 2024 season, his upcoming switch to Ferrari has made him an unexpected figure of interest in the Maranello garage. With Ferrari currently trailing Red Bull in the Constructors’ Championship but showing signs of strong competitiveness, the new upgrade package could be a turning point—and Hamilton is eager to see how it performs on the track.
Ferrari’s Bahrain Package: A Step Towards Red Bull?
Ferrari’s upgrade package, scheduled to debut at the Bahrain Grand Prix, includes aerodynamic tweaks, weight reduction components, and modifications aimed at improving tire management—an area where the team struggled in the previous season. Insiders suggest that Ferrari has been aggressive in their development approach over the winter, focusing on long-run consistency and top-end speed.
Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc, Ferrari’s current drivers, have already shown promising results during early testing and simulation runs. Leclerc, in particular, has voiced confidence in the team’s direction, describing the SF-24 as “more predictable and responsive” than its predecessor. Sainz echoed that sentiment, calling the car “a clear step forward.”
With Hamilton set to join the team next year, his interest in the development of the car is natural. Though he cannot officially test the 2024 Ferrari car, he’s been keeping tabs on its progress and reportedly participated in private briefings regarding next year’s development roadmap.
Hamilton’s Thoughts on Ferrari’s Momentum
Speaking to media ahead of the Bahrain race weekend, Hamilton commented on the upgrades, saying, “I’ve been watching very closely. It’s exciting to see how Ferrari is pushing forward with their development. The new upgrade looks like a real step in the right direction, and I can’t wait to get behind the wheel next year.”
While Hamilton remains professional in his commitment to Mercedes for the rest of the season, he did not shy away from expressing anticipation for what lies ahead. “I’m still fully focused on this season and giving my best for the team at Mercedes, but it’s also natural to be curious about what’s coming. Ferrari has shown great pace and it’s exciting to think about the potential.”
Ferrari Team Principal Frédéric Vasseur has also been tight-lipped but optimistic about the impact of the new parts. “We are bringing a package we believe will help us close the gap to Red Bull. Bahrain will be an important weekend to understand where we truly stand.”
A Transition Period for Hamilton
Hamilton’s move to Ferrari is one of the most talked-about transfers in recent Formula 1 history. After over a decade with Mercedes, where he won six of his seven world titles, the British driver is seeking a new challenge with one of the sport’s most iconic teams. His decision to leave Mercedes marks the end of an era, and fans are already speculating what his presence might bring to Ferrari’s title hopes in 2025 and beyond.
For now, Hamilton remains a competitor—still aiming to end his final season with Mercedes on a high note. But as the Ferrari SF-24 continues to evolve, it’s clear that Hamilton’s eyes are not just on the podium, but also on the future red machine he’ll soon call home.
The Bahrain Grand Prix could prove to be a pivotal moment for Ferrari’s 2024 campaign. And for Hamilton, it may offer a glimpse of what’s to come.
