Lewis Hamilton returns to Barcelona after crash his is now…read more
Lewis Hamilton has returned to the Circuit de Catalunya in Barcelona to participate in a Pirelli tyre test for Ferrari, following his crash during a private test at the same venue last week. The seven-time world champion, who has been the subject of major off-season speculation regarding his move to Ferrari, is now back in action, although the crash he was involved in during the previous test did not result in any injuries.
The testing taking place this week is part of a programme organized by Pirelli, the official tyre supplier for Formula 1, as they assess tyres designed for the 2026 regulations. Both Hamilton and his new teammate, Charles Leclerc, are alternating driving duties in Ferrari’s 2024 car, which is a modified version of the team’s current car. The modification is necessary to accommodate the smaller tyres that will be introduced for the 2026 season. The testing will continue over the course of February 4 and 5, with each driver taking turns before and after lunch.
Ferrari’s rivals, reigning constructors’ champions McLaren, are also participating in the same tyre test at the circuit, contributing to an intense atmosphere of competition during these trials.
Hamilton had already been involved with Ferrari during the off-season, having conducted a short filming session at the team’s Fiorano test track in Italy in January. This filming session was conducted under the “Testing of a Previous Car” rule, which allows limited testing with older cars. His most significant involvement with Ferrari’s 2025 season car will take place on February 19, when the team officially unveils its new car at the Fiorano circuit.
Once Ferrari’s new car is revealed, Hamilton and Leclerc will be preparing for the crucial pre-season test in Bahrain, scheduled for February 26 to 28. These tests will be essential for both drivers as they familiarize themselves with the car and assess its performance ahead of the new season. The Formula 1 season will officially kick off with the Australian Grand Prix on March 18.
This off-season has been full of anticipation due to Hamilton’s high-profile move to Ferrari, and fans are eager to see how the partnership between the seven-time world champion and Leclerc will evolve. As the team gears up for the upcoming season, the tyre test in Barcelona offers important data and insight into the performance of the new tyres, which could play a critical role in Ferrari’s strategy for 2026 and beyond. Hamilton’s experience and contributions during this testing period are seen as valuable as he prepares for a new chapter in his illustrious career with Ferrari.
