Lewis Hamilton’s Ferrari tests in Barcelona today SPARK’S…read more
Lewis Hamilton is set to continue his adaptation to life as a Ferrari driver during a private test session at Barcelona’s Circuit de Catalunya this week. The three-day test, scheduled to take place from January 28-30, will also feature his teammate, Charles Leclerc. Ferrari has planned the test using the SF-23 car, which competed during the 2023 F1 season.
Both Hamilton and Leclerc will alternate driving duties during the test, although Ferrari has not disclosed the exact schedule, noting that it may be subject to change. The session is part of F1’s “Testing of Previous Cars” (TPC) regulations, which limit current drivers to 1,000km of testing in older cars annually.
Hamilton got his first taste of Ferrari machinery last week, completing 30 laps (89km) at the team’s Fiorano track in his highly anticipated debut. Ferrari has since released images of Hamilton wearing the iconic red race suit, marking a significant milestone for the seven-time world champion. Hamilton’s move to the Italian team has dominated off-season headlines, and this test session is the next step in his integration with the team.
In addition to this week’s private test, Hamilton and Leclerc are also scheduled to participate in a Pirelli tire test on February 4-5, also in Barcelona, using a modified 2024 mule car. Ferrari has been strategic in maximizing Hamilton’s track time despite the stringent F1 testing restrictions.
Looking ahead, Hamilton will drive Ferrari’s 2025 car for the first time on February 19 during its official launch at Fiorano, weather permitting. Following this, Ferrari and the rest of the grid will participate in three days of pre-season testing in Bahrain from February 26-28, ahead of the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne on March 16.
Reflecting on his first experience driving a Ferrari at Fiorano, Hamilton shared his excitement: “Starting up the car and driving out of the garage brought back memories of my first F1 test nearly 20 years ago. It was an incredibly special moment, and I couldn’t stop smiling.” Hamilton also praised Ferrari’s legendary passion: “I’ve always admired the Ferrari family from the outside, but seeing their dedication and love firsthand has been awe-inspiring. That energy is contagious, and I’m incredibly grateful for the warm welcome I’ve received.”
As preseason preparations are in full swing, Ferrari is ensuring that its new driver is fully integrated as they set their sights on a competitive 2025 campaign. With Hamilton’s experience and talent, combined with Ferrari’s legendary passion and dedication, the team is looking to make a strong comeback in the upcoming season.
The private test session in Barcelona will provide Hamilton with valuable track time and allow him to continue adapting to the Ferrari car. The test will also give the team an opportunity to assess their progress and make any necessary adjustments before the start of the season.
As the F1 community eagerly awaits the start of the 2025 season, Ferrari is leaving no stone unturned in its pursuit of success. With Hamilton on board, the team is looking to make a strong statement and challenge for the championship. The private test session in Barcelona is just the beginning of an exciting journey for Ferrari and Hamilton, and fans around the world will be watching with bated breath as the season unfolds.
In conclusion, Lewis Hamilton’s Ferrari tests in Barcelona are set to continue, with the three-day test session providing the driver with valuable track time and allowing the team to assess their progress. With Hamilton’s experience and talent, combined with Ferrari’s legendary passion and dedication, the team is looking to make a strong comeback in the upcoming season. As preseason preparations are in full swing, Ferrari is ensuring that its new driver is fully integrated, and the team is leaving no stone unturned in its pursuit of success.
