Hamilton involved in Ferrari 'experiments' as new F1 chapter begins

Lewis Hamilton has reflected on his first day behind the wheel of his Ferrari in an official session, as the team conducted experiments to unlock potential from the new car.

Hamilton started work with the Italian squad last month following the end of his highly successful tenure with Mercedes.

Ferrari has hosted a handful of private tests for Hamilton in preparation for the new season, but Wednesday's pre-season test marked the first time Hamilton has driven the Ferrari SF-25 at length.

Hamilton was in the car during the morning session for Ferrari, setting 70 laps before handing over duties to team-mate Charles Leclerc in the afternoon.

Reflecting on the opening day of running, Hamilton stated: “Testing is always exciting. 

“It’s the first time you get to see what everyone has been developing and can start to get a feel for your own car and the year ahead.

“Being here with Scuderia Ferrari and in the SF-25 for the first time is an incredible feeling. 

“Our focus right now is on experimenting with different things, gathering as much data as possible and getting familiar with the car, and we’ve already learned a lot.”

Ferrari is being tipped as a contender in the championship this year after narrowly missing out on the constructors' title in 2024.

Hamilton asserted it is impossible at this stage to guess where Ferrari ranks in the pecking order as he looks to further progress in the days ahead.

“It’s too early to really understand performance, but everything feels good and as a team we’re working on the best way to optimise each run,” he added.

“There’s more to do over the next few days to get through our programme and understand the car to the best of our ability, but right now I’m looking forward to getting out there again tomorrow.”

Hamilton will be back behind the wheel on Wednesday morning before once again stepping aside for Leclerc for the afternoon session.