F1: Hamilton calls for changes after Ferrari SF-25 test, updates planned for Bahrain GP

Lewis Hamilton continues his integration at Scuderia Ferrari and wasted no time in fine-tuning his new single-seater. At the recent shakedown on the Fiorano circuitthe seven-time world champion has identified several areas for improvement on the Ferrari SF-25. According to the latest information, these updates should be ready for the pre-season testing in Bahrain, scheduled for this Wednesday, February 26and could also be used at the Grand Prix of Formula 1 which will open the season on the same circuit.

An essential shakedown in Fiorano for the Scuderia

After the official presentation of the SF-25 in LondonScuderia Ferrari was in Italy for a filming day on the Fiorano track. Charles Leclerc took the wheel in the morning and completed some thirty laps, while Lewis Hamilton settled in for the afternoon to gradually get to know his new single-seater, far from the Mercedes environment to which he had been accustomed since 2013.

According to unofficial sources, Hamilton was about 0.8 seconds slower than Leclerc. However, the two drivers weren't aiming for the same goal: while Leclerc, already very familiar with Ferrari, could attack straight away, Hamilton concentrated on getting to grips with the team's systems and procedures. Despite this chronometric gap, initial feedback on the SF-25 has been rather positive. Initial analyses suggest that it will be up to 0.4 seconds faster than last season's car, raising hopes of further progress at Maranello.

Adjustments requested by Hamilton

According to information relayed by Auto Racer, Hamilton is said to have requested "a few minor adjustments" to the SF-25, notably to the feel of the brake pedals. Last year, at Mercedes, he used a braking system supplied by Carbon Industrie, whereas Ferrari works mainly with Brembo. This difference in equipment would require time to adapt, especially as the Briton had already pointed out, during his first tests with the Scuderia, a certain discomfort and more frequent wheel lock-ups.

The familiarization process wasn't easy. During a previous test in Barcelona at the wheel of the Ferrari 2023, Hamilton went off the track at over 200 km/h which caused some initial concern. Some saw it as a potential track anomaly or a problem with the Ferrari engine. Eventually, the pilot admitted it was a simple mistake as he tried to "find the limit of the car as quickly as possible".

"It's a completely different transition from my previous team changes. Here, everything is new: the engine, the car configuration, the terminology used by the team. I'm learning a lot and I already feel comfortable, but it's clear that I still need time to fine-tune my bearings", explained Hamilton.

The team is already looking ahead to Bahrain

The British driver hopes to have the requested modifications to the SF-25 operational by the time winter testing kicks off in Bahrain on February 26. These changes, described as minor, could nonetheless play a significant role in Hamilton's driving (and braking) sensations and his adaptation to his new team. This should give Ferrari a good start to the new season, especially as the Scuderia intends to capitalize on the good dynamics observed during these first drives.