Lewis Hamilton highlighted the work of the Ferrari team during pre-season testing on the Circuito Internacional of the Bahrein. The British pilot completed the fifth day of activities with the fourth best time, behind Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Oscar Piastri and Max Verstappen. Apesar Despite the positive result in terms of a quick lap, the day presented setbacks that prevented the completion of the entire planned program.
Ferrari faced a rear axle and gearbox failure just after five laps completed by Hamilton. The team carried out quick repairs and returned the car to the track, allowing important data to be collected. Hamilton valorizou a resposta imediata dos mecânicos e engenheiros, que garantiram a continuidade do trabalho mesmo com o imprevisto.
Rapid team recovery
The 41-year-old driver emphasized the team’s efficiency in solving the problem. The intervention allowed Hamilton to return to the track and accumulate the necessary mileage. Data obtained during the remaining laps will be analyzed for adjustments before the start of the season.
Hamilton also participated in starting simulations, where he demonstrated good performance. Ferrari exhibited specific characteristics in the SF-26 car that could favor test runs. Esses tests help to understand vehicle behavior under new technical regulations.
Performance compared to rivals
The time set by Hamilton positioned Ferrari among the main competitors on the day. Antonelli led with Mercedes, followed by McLaren’s Piastri and Verstappen from Red Bull. The session highlighted the initial competitiveness of the teams with the 2026 cars.
Scuderia showed the ability to quickly adapt to setbacks. The focus remained on gathering information about tires, aerodynamics and energy management. Esses elements are crucial for long run performance.
Pilot statements about the day
Hamilton acknowledged that the day did not go as expected by the team. “It wasn’t a perfect day for the team, because we weren’t able to complete everything we had planned,” said the Briton. Ele added that the collective effort was essential to minimize losses.
The pilot expressed gratitude for the laps performed. “I am very grateful for the laps we were able to complete, and the data we collected will be important as we continue to prepare for the season.” Post-test analysis should guide next steps.
Positive aspects highlighted
Despite the difficulties, Hamilton praised Ferrari’s overall work in the tests. The team demonstrated organization and speed in resolving technical issues. Esses factors contribute to confidence in the SF-26 project.
The car incorporates contributions from Hamilton himself in development over the past few months. The driver feels more integrated into the vehicle compared to the previous year. Essa connection can influence performance in the first runs.
Preparation for the season
The last day of collective testing takes place on February 20th, at the same circuit. Teams finalize outstanding programs and refine configurations. The Ferrari seeks to maximize mileage to validate technical solutions.
Hamilton maintains focus on continuous evolution. The 2026 season starts in March, with the Grande Prêmio of the Austrália. Testing on Bahrein provides a solid basis for final adjustments before debut.
Technical details noted
The session revealed experiments with aerodynamic components on the Ferrari. The car exhibited specific behaviors on straights and curves. Esses tests help understand the impact of the new 2026 rules.
Isolated problems did not compromise overall progress. The team prioritizes reliability and balanced performance. Engineers analyze telemetry to optimize the package.
The British concluded the day satisfied with the volume of information gathered. Ferrari advances in preparation, with an emphasis on consistency throughout the calendar.
