Ferrari pinpoints ‘sole purpose’ of Lewis Hamilton’s Fiorano test

Ferrari Team Principal Fred Vasseur revealed the main reason behind Lewis Hamilton's first track day at the Fiorano circuit.


Ferrari pinpoints ‘sole purpose’ of Lewis Hamilton’s Fiorano test

Lewis Hamilton, Lewis Hamilton driving SF23 at Fiorano (via @fiagirly/X)

Lewis Hamilton is now officially a Scuderia Ferrari driver. The seven-time world champion has met his new team in Maranello. Now, Ferrari boss Fred Vasseur has revealed the reason behind the Briton’s first track outing for the Prancing Horse.

Hamilton made his on-track debut for Ferrari a day after coming to Maranello. The 40-year-old drove the 2023 race-winning SF-23 at the Fiorano circuit, giving fans a delightful sight. The F1 star wore a shiny new yellow crash helmet to mark this occasion. Charles Leclerc also conducted a similar test.

YouTube video

Vasseur pointed out that Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc got the opportunity to get back to the track environment after a long winter break despite the overcast weather conditions. The Frenchman further labeled the sole purpose for this running to allow for the Ferrari crew to warm up before the 2025 season begins.

FS Video

Charles and Lewis did their laps in not the best weather, but they got back in the swing of things and immersed themselves in the track environment prior to the first proper test in a month’s time in Bahrain. It was also a warm-up for the team in the garage. That was the sole purpose.

Fred Vasseur said via Ferrari’s website

Fred Vasseur expresses ’emotional feeling’ over Lewis Hamilton test

The Ferrari boss pointed out that the preseason preparation often gives a ‘back to school’ feeling for all team personnel. Fred Vasseur claimed that this time, he felt even more emotional considering it was Lewis Hamilton’s first running as part of the Italian team.

Fred Vasseur, Lewis Hamilton and Benedeto Vigna (via @lewishamilton/Instagram)
Fred Vasseur, Lewis Hamilton and Benedeto Vigna (via @lewishamilton/Instagram)

As is the case every year, the first time you go out on track is a bit like the first day back at school and quite an emotional feeling, especially today as it was Lewis’ first day as part of the team.

Fred Vasseur added

Certainly, the Scuderia has some big plans for its first season with Lewis Hamilton. The seven-time world champion will play a pivotal role in the team’s title ambitions. As such, fans can expect to see Hamilton try to fight for victories once the season kicks off in Melbourne.