Lewis Hamilton makes his Ferrari debut: Fiorano success and upcoming test, a new era for Hamilton and Ferrari as the second test is planned – Seven-time Formula One World Champion Lewis Hamilton has officially begun his journey with Ferrari, completing his much-anticipated debut test for the Scuderia at Fiorano on Wednesday.
After nearly a year of waiting since his move was announced, Ferrari fans – known as Tifosi – were finally treated to the sight of Hamilton behind the wheel of the iconic red car.
The debut marked the 40-year-old’s first official outing as a Ferrari driver. He completed 30 laps in the Ferrari SF-23 during the session, signalling the start of an exciting new chapter in his career. The test not only gave Hamilton the chance to familiarise himself with the team and the car, but also set the scene for a series of upcoming tests that will see him further integrate into the Ferrari set-up.
Hamilton and Leclerc prepare for 2nd test
Ferrari have now confirmed the next steps in Hamilton’s testing schedule. Starting on Tuesday, Hamilton and team-mate Charles Leclerc will take part in a three-day private test at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya.
The test, which will take place behind closed doors, will give both drivers the opportunity to gain valuable track time and further hone their skills in preparation for the 2025 Formula One season.
While Ferrari have not revealed which cars the drivers will use during the Barcelona test, it is widely expected that Hamilton and Leclerc will drive modified versions of previous models, most likely the 2023 SF-23 or the 2022 F1-75. These cars have been modified to comply with F1’s Testing of Previous Cars (TPC) regulations, which allow teams to complete a limited number of test kilometres with older models.
During his debut at Fiorano, Hamilton covered a total of 90 kilometres, while Leclerc – who also took part in the session – covered 42 kilometres after completing 14 laps. The Barcelona test will give both drivers a more extensive opportunity to familiarise themselves with the team’s set-up and assess their performance on a high-speed track.
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Upcoming Pirelli tyre test
Following the three-day test in Barcelona, Hamilton will have another opportunity to hit the track with Ferrari as part of a Pirelli tyre development programme. The test, scheduled for February 4-5, is part of Formula One’s ongoing efforts to develop tyres for the 2026 season.
It will also be a significant milestone for Hamilton, who will drive the SF-24, Ferrari’s 2024 car, for the first time during the Pirelli test.
This tyre test will be Hamilton’s first experience of a car that reflects Ferrari’s latest technical developments, giving him an early preview of what to expect from the team’s machinery ahead of next season. The data collected during these sessions will not only benefit Pirelli, but will also provide Ferrari with further insight into the car’s performance on the new tyres.
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First drive of the 2025 Ferrari
The excitement does not stop there. Ferrari have scheduled a short but crucial test session at Fiorano on 18 February, just one day after the official 2025 season launch event at London’s O2 Arena. At that event, all ten F1 teams will unveil their new cars for the season.
Hamilton and Leclerc will then take to the track at Ferrari’s home circuit for a brief shakedown in the team’s new 2025 challenger.
This session will allow Ferrari to assess the car’s initial performance and ensure that all systems are working as expected. It will also be an opportunity for Hamilton to provide early feedback on the car’s handling and dynamics, setting the tone for the team’s preparations ahead of the season.
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Bahrain pre-season test awaits
The final pre-season preparation for Ferrari and the rest of the Formula One grid will take place at the official pre-season test in Bahrain from 26-28 February. This will be the first opportunity for all the teams to evaluate their new cars in direct competition on the same track.
For Hamilton and Ferrari, this is the ultimate chance to fine-tune their set-up and establish a baseline for the 2025 campaign.
With Ferrari determined to return to championship contention, the combination of Hamilton’s experience and Leclerc’s talent could prove crucial. The Bahrain test will provide the first real insight into whether the Scuderia has succeeded in building a car capable of challenging Red Bull, Mercedes and other top teams.
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The road ahead for Hamilton and Ferrari
Hamilton’s move to Ferrari is one of the most talked about stories in recent F1 history. As the sport’s most successful driver, his decision to join the legendary Italian team comes with huge expectations. For the Tifosi, Hamilton represents a renewed hope of championship glory, while for Ferrari, his presence brings a wealth of experience and unparalleled skill.
Early signs from Fiorano suggest that Hamilton is settling in well with his new team. However, the real test lies ahead as he works alongside Leclerc to push Ferrari back to the front of the grid. The upcoming tests in Barcelona and Bahrain will be crucial in determining the Scuderia’s fortunes for the 2025 season.
As the countdown to the new season continues, all eyes will be on Hamilton and Ferrari to see if this historic partnership can deliver on its promise. For now, the Tifosi can look forward to seeing their new star in action as he prepares for the next chapter of his illustrious career.
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