Lewis Hamilton’s highly anticipated Ferrari debut continues this week with a private test session at the Circuit de Catalunya.
The seven-time world champion and his teammate, Charles Leclerc, will share driving duties over three days, from January 28th to 30th.
This test allows the drivers to further familiarize themselves with the Ferrari SF-23, the car used in the 2023 season.
While F1 regulations limit current drivers to a specific mileage in older cars, Hamilton already completed 30 laps at Ferrari’s Fiorano test track last week, providing him with an initial taste of the Italian team’s machinery.
Hamilton’s move to Ferrari has generated immense excitement within the F1 world. The team has released imagery of Hamilton in the iconic red Ferrari race suit, further fueling anticipation.
Following this test, Hamilton and Leclerc will participate in a Pirelli tire test on February 4th and 5th, utilizing a modified 2024 “mule” car.
Although limited by regulations, Ferrari has maximized track time for Hamilton. He is set to experience the team’s 2025 car firsthand on February 19th during the official car launch.
Both Hamilton and Leclerc are expected to complete laps at Fiorano in the new challenger, weather permitting.
Following the car launch, all F1 teams will participate in three days of preseason testing in Bahrain from February 26th to 28th.
This crucial period will allow teams to fine-tune their cars before the season-opening Australian Grand Prix on March 16th.
Reflecting on his first laps at Fiorano, Hamilton expressed his excitement: “When I started the car up and drove through that garage door, I had the biggest smile on my face. It reminded me of the very first time I tested a Formula 1 car. It was such an exciting and special moment, and here I am, almost 20 years later, feeling those emotions all over again.”
He further emphasized the passionate atmosphere within the Ferrari team: “I already knew from the outside how passionate the Ferrari family is, from everyone in the team to the tifosi. But to now witness it first hand as a Ferrari driver has been awe-inspiring. That passion runs through their veins and you can’t help but be energized by it. I’m so grateful for the love I have felt from everyone in Maranello this week, we have a lot of work to do but I can’t wait to get started.”
