Lewis Hamilton credits Ferrari for making him enjoy dreaded preseason testing

Lewis Hamilton showcased his gratitude to Ferrari for making the pre-season testing sufferable ahead of the 2025 season.

Lewis Hamilton credits Ferrari for making him enjoy dreaded preseason testing

Lewis Hamilton and Fred Vasseur (via Getty)

Lewis Hamilton’s dislike for pre-season testing is well-known. Even in his 18th F1 season, the 40-year-old still isn’t a fan of the schedule. However, the 40-year-old felt different this time, especially due to racing for the Reds. The Briton credited the Italian constructor for making the experience more enjoyable in Bahrain.

Lewis Hamilton performed well in the pre-season test and lodged a faster lap time than teammate Charles Leclerc. Hamilton declared that his aversion towards the pre-season test remained present. However, racing for Ferrari was a different feeling as he enjoyed the sessions this time around.

No. I still am not a fan of testing, but I’ve really enjoyed the testing that I’ve had this year.

Lewis Hamilton said, as reported by GPblog
YouTube video

Hamilton highlighted that he was grateful for the Testing of Previous Cars (TPC) program within Ferrari which helped him gain valuable knowledge. The Briton believed that if he didn’t race around in the previous challenger as much, he wouldn’t be as comfortable in the pre-season test. Now, the 40-year-old seems prepared to contend for the championship in the coming season.

FS Video

I mean, I’m super grateful for the TPC testing that I got to do. If I only had this day and a half, I definitely wouldn’t be in the position I’m in now, in terms of how comfortable I feel with the car.

Lewis Hamilton added

Lewis Hamilton ‘excited’ to start racing with Ferrari in 2025

Lewis Hamilton had previously accepted that there was still some work pending in the SF-25 to make it championship-worthy. The 40-year-old hinted that there was still ground to be made over the challenger. Regardless, Hamilton put forth his excitement to start racing with the Italian constructor at the Australian GP.

Lewis Hamilton
Lewis Hamilton (via GPBlog)

There’s still some way to go, but at this point, I’m just excited to get racing.

Lewis Hamilton noted

Ferrari appears to be among the top three fastest teams, alongside McLaren and Mercedes. However, they still trail McLaren in pace, which needs urgent improvement. Maranello is now rushing preparations for Hamilton’s debut race with the team.