Hamilton debuts Ferrari SF-26 in Fiorano shakedown
Lewis Hamilton has officially driven the new Ferrari SF-26 for the first time during a shakedown at Fiorano. Running on full-wet tires under demonstration event regulations, the seven-time champion completed installation laps ahead of the team's pre-season testing in Barcelona.
Ferrari has officially commenced its 2026 Formula 1 campaign with a shakedown of the new SF-26 at Fiorano. Lewis Hamilton took the wheel for the installation laps, driving the car on full-wet tires before the team’s scheduled digital unveiling. The session was conducted under strict "Demonstration Event" regulations, limiting the team to a maximum distance of 15km to ensure system checks without compromising testing allocations.
Why it matters:
This shakedown represents the tangible beginning of the Hamilton-Ferrari partnership that has captivated the motorsport world. While the mileage was minimal, successfully completing these installation laps is a critical reliability milestone. It ensures that all mechanical and electrical systems function correctly before the car is subjected to the grueling demands of pre-season testing. For the tifosi, seeing Hamilton in red at their home track is a powerful symbolic moment ahead of the new season.
The details:
- The Debut: Hamilton was entrusted with the first driving duties, waving to fans as he exited the garage. Track running actually commenced prior to the 11:30am CET video reveal.
- Technical Constraints: The event was registered as a "Demonstration Event" by the FIA. This classification restricts teams to 15km of running, roughly equivalent to five laps of Fiorano, preventing any meaningful performance data gathering.
- Tire Choice: The SF-26 was fitted with full-wet tires for the initial laps, likely due to track conditions or a specific directive to check systems in wet running parameters.
- The Challenger: The SF-26 is Ferrari's specific answer to the 2026 technical regulations, carrying the hopes of the Maranello squad.
What's next:
The focus now shifts to Barcelona for the official pre-season test.
- Running from January 26-30, the Barcelona test will be the first opportunity for the team to assess the true pace and handling characteristics of the SF-26.
- Ferrari will be looking to maximize track time to gather data on the new power unit and aerodynamic package before the season opener.