Hamilton stunned by first laps in Ferrari’s 2026 SF‑26

Lewis Hamilton said his first shakedown in Ferrari’s 2026 SF‑26 was unforgettable. The seven‑time champion ran the car at Fiorano on Friday, feeling the new power‑unit vibration and the roar of the Tifosi at Turn 1 as the garage doors opened.

Why it matters:

• Hamilton’s endorsement adds credibility to Ferrari’s 2026 project after a mixed 2025 season.
• The SF‑26 is the first chassis built to the new 2026 power‑unit regs, a crucial step toward a competitive launch.
• Driver positivity can boost morale and attract sponsors ahead of the season.

The details:

• Friday at Fiorano, Ferrari unveiled the SF‑26 and ran a shakedown.
• Hamilton was first on track, completing laps before Charles Leclerc took over.
• Both drivers waved to the Tifosi, who gathered at Turn 1 and were visible as the garage doors opened.
• Hamilton praised the white‑livery cockpit, saying the fit was perfect and the new power‑unit vibration was exhilarating.

What's next:

• Ferrari will keep testing the SF‑26 at Fiorano and other tracks this summer to fine‑tune the car.
• Hamilton’s glowing remarks hint at possible future driver talks, and the next public test is set for pre‑season in Bahrain.
• Fans will watch to see if the SF‑26 can close the performance gap to Mercedes and Red Bull.