Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time Formula One World Champion, made his full Ferrari testing debut by completing 70 laps in the team’s 2025 car. This marked a significant moment in the Briton’s career as he transitioned to his new team following his departure from Mercedes. The morning session also saw the emergence of teenage rookie Andrea Kimi Antonelli, who set the pace with impressive speed during the first four hours of pre-season running in Bahrain.
Hamilton’s Debut with Ferrari
Hamilton’s journey with Ferrari began with a shakedown at Fiorano alongside Charles Leclerc the previous week. However, it was on the opening morning of the three-day test in Bahrain that he truly got behind the wheel of his new team’s latest car. Despite the unseasonably cold conditions, Hamilton showed his prowess by completing well over a full Bahrain race distance of 57 laps across multiple stints.
During his morning session, Hamilton encountered a few minor off-track moments, notably kicking up gravel at Turn Four. However, these incidents did not deter his performance as he familiarized himself with the intricacies of the SF-25. The session progressed smoothly for Hamilton, setting the stage for further development and fine-tuning as he settled into his new role at Ferrari.
Rookie Sensation Antonelli Shines
While Hamilton took center stage with his debut, it was the 18-year-old Antonelli who stole the show with an impressive display of speed and skill. The young rookie, stepping into Hamilton’s former role at Mercedes, showcased his potential by racking up 78 laps and setting a fastest time of 1:31.428. Antonelli’s performance highlighted the promising future ahead for the talented driver, earning praise and attention from spectators and experts alike.
In addition to Antonelli’s standout performance, other drivers made their mark during the morning session. Liam Lawson secured the second-quickest time in the new Red Bull after completing 58 laps, while Alex Albon of Williams and Yuki Tsunoda of Racing Bulls demonstrated competitive speeds on the track. The session was not without its challenges, as Max Verstappen’s new teammate had a spin at Turn Three, showcasing the unpredictable nature of pre-season testing.
As the morning session unfolded, teams prioritized checks and early setup adjustments over chasing outright performance. Lap times remained a point of contention, given the varying factors that influenced each driver’s performance. Despite the inherent challenges of the opening day of testing, each team focused on laying a solid foundation for the season ahead, setting the tone for the days to come.
The morning session set the stage for an exciting period of testing, with drivers and teams showcasing their capabilities and fine-tuning their strategies for the upcoming season. The blend of seasoned veterans like Hamilton and emerging talents like Antonelli added a dynamic element to the proceedings, underscoring the competitive spirit and camaraderie that define the world of Formula One.
In the competitive landscape of Formula One, each lap, each turn, and each moment on the track holds the promise of greatness and the potential for setbacks. As drivers navigate the twists and turns of pre-season testing, they lay the groundwork for a season filled with adrenaline-fueled races, heart-stopping moments, and unforgettable triumphs. The journey has only just begun, but the road ahead is paved with excitement, challenges, and the pursuit of excellence.
