Hamilton channels Eddie Murphy for Ferrari SF-26 debut at Fiorano

Lewis Hamilton officially kicked off his 2026 on-track journey with Ferrari, taking the wheel of the new SF-26 for a shakedown at Fiorano. Looking to move past a forgettable first season with the Scuderia, the seven-time champion completed installation laps before capping off the day with a gesture that delighted the Tifosi.

Why it matters:

Beyond the technical data gathered, this moment signals Hamilton's deepening cultural integration into Ferrari. By engaging fans with a localized reference to a favorite film, he is actively building a rapport with the passionate supporter base crucial for the team's morale heading into a critical season.

The details:

• The Tribute: Hamilton channeled Eddie Murphy’s Coming to America, shouting "Buongiorno, vicini" ("Good morning, my neighbours") in Italian. The video quickly circulated on social media, sparking excitement among fans.
• Shakedown Duties: As the first to drive the SF-26, Hamilton completed a limited number of laps to verify basic systems and reliability at Ferrari's private circuit.
• Technical Reflection: Despite the brief run, Hamilton emphasized the thrill of seeing the physical car materialize. He noted the excitement of watching "pieces come out of different departments" and finally fit together after extensive preparation in the simulator.

Looking ahead:

The team now packs up for Barcelona, where the SF-26 will undergo its first serious examination against rival machinery. The upcoming test will reveal if the optimism from Maranello translates into genuine pace on track.