The Return of Lewis Hamilton to Ferrari
Lewis Hamilton recently took the wheel for Ferrari during Pirelli tyre testing at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. This marked a significant moment as Hamilton, alongside his teammate Charles Leclerc, experienced extensive running in the SF-23, Ferrari’s 2024 challenger. The team aimed to gather crucial data for F1’s 2026 regulations, showcasing their commitment to improving performance ahead of upcoming seasons.
The Testing Dynamics
The tyre test began with a competitive atmosphere, as Lando Norris from McLaren topped the timings, achieving an impressive best time of 1:15.21. Hamilton followed closely, clocking in at 1:15.93, consistently surpassing Leclerc’s best by 0.13 seconds. The test faced some challenges; on the second day, Hamilton encountered a shunt at turn 12, causing bodywork and suspension damage, which disrupted Leclerc’s afternoon schedule. This incident highlighted the unpredictability of testing, where every lap counts.
New Regulations on the Horizon
Both Ferrari and McLaren utilized modified versions of their cars to simulate the new F1 2026 regulations, which promise to reshape the sport significantly. With around 20% less downforce, the teams are adapting to substantial chassis and power unit rule changes set to come into force. This adaptation period is vital for teams to refine their strategies and enhance car performance ahead of the regulatory shift.
