Ferrari recently made a surprising decision involving Charles Leclerc during a testing session following a crash by Lewis Hamilton at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. Hamilton, who has been reintroduced to Ferrari’s operations as part of Pirelli’s tyre testing program, had his first proper outing with the 2024 Ferrari car in Barcelona after testing the older SF-23 model at Fiorano. Unfortunately, Hamilton’s session was cut short due to a crash that heavily damaged the car, preventing Leclerc from taking part in the afternoon session as originally planned.
Despite the setback, Ferrari quickly resumed the test at the same venue, with both Hamilton and Leclerc returning to make up for lost track time. This new phase of testing includes a rather unconventional setup, with the team focusing on simulating the increased downforce levels expected in the 2026 season. To meet Pirelli’s tyre development goals, the Ferrari drivers are using configurations not typically seen at the Barcelona track, such as rear wings similar to those used at high-speed circuits like Monza.
In this unusual testing format, Hamilton took the wheel first, piloting a specially modified “mule” car designed to handle the unique aerodynamic demands. Leclerc was scheduled to drive in the afternoon, with the potential for the two drivers to switch running orders the following day. This structured approach ensures both get equal opportunities to contribute data for Pirelli’s evolving tyre designs. The emphasis of the test is on understanding tyre performance under future aerodynamic loads.
Interestingly, Ferrari is not the only team participating in the Barcelona test. McLaren has also joined the sessions with drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri. Having recently completed wet tyre testing in France, McLaren’s focus during this test is likely on different performance aspects related to the 2024 tyre compounds. This collaborative effort highlights the significance of these sessions in shaping the sport’s future technical direction.
In conclusion, Ferrari’s peculiar decision regarding Leclerc’s testing schedule stems from the need to adapt after Hamilton’s accident and to accommodate the demands of a forward-looking tyre development programme. With both drivers now back in action under a high-downforce simulation, and McLaren also contributing, the test marks a crucial step in preparing for the changes coming in 2026. This unusual yet strategic testing setup could influence both tyre technology and car performance standards in the seasons ahead.
About the Author
