Lewis Hamilton’s journey as a Ferrari driver continues to generate massive buzz, with the dates for his second on-track outing confirmed. The seven-time Formula 1 world champion will take to the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya between Tuesday, January 28, and Thursday, January 30, as Ferrari ramps up its preparations for the 2025 F1 season.
Hamilton’s Fiorano debut sets the tone
Earlier this week, Hamilton completed his first test in Ferrari’s iconic red, driving the 2023 SF-23 at the Fiorano circuit. The Brit clocked 30 laps, covering approximately 90 kilometers of the 1,000 kilometers allocated for Testing of Previous Cars (TPC) under new F1 regulations for 2025.
These rules, introduced in section B (Article 11.3.7) of the F1 sporting regulations, allow each team to accumulate up to 1,000 kilometers of TPC across a maximum of four test days in a calendar year.
Hamilton’s teammate, Charles Leclerc, also participated in the Fiorano test, completing 14 laps or roughly 42 kilometers. Both drivers are now set to reconvene in Barcelona for another private session, further refining their understanding of Ferrari machinery.
Behind-closed-doors Barcelona test
The upcoming test in Spain will be held behind closed doors, with Ferrari expected to run either the 2023 SF-23 or the 2022 F1-75. This session will be crucial for Hamilton, as he adapts to Ferrari’s culture, engineering style, and car dynamics ahead of his highly anticipated debut season with the team.
Additionally, Ferrari has scheduled a third test at the same venue on February 4-5. This session will mark Hamilton’s first opportunity to drive last year’s Ferrari, the car that narrowly missed out on the Constructors’ Championship to McLaren in 2024.
Ferrari’s 2025 ambitions
After finishing 14 points behind McLaren in last year’s title fight, Ferrari enters the 2025 season with sky-high expectations. The pairing of Hamilton and Leclerc forms one of the most formidable lineups on the grid. While Hamilton brings a wealth of experience and a relentless drive for his eighth world title, Leclerc’s speed and familiarity with the team make him a key asset.
Ferrari’s 2024 campaign saw a late-season surge led by Leclerc and Carlos Sainz, with both drivers delivering consistent podium finishes. However, it wasn’t enough to end Ferrari’s Constructors’ Championship drought, which dates back to 2008.
Hamilton’s excitement fuels Ferrari’s momentum
Hamilton’s enthusiasm for this new chapter in his career was palpable after his Fiorano debut. Reflecting on the experience, he shared:
“When I started the car up and drove through that garage door, I had the biggest smile on my face. 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 firsthand as a Ferrari driver has been awe-inspiring.”