Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton expressed optimism about Ferrari's performance during the Barcelona shakedown. He reported that the team's testing has been better than last year, praising the team's ability to accumulate a significant amount of mileage. Hamilton completed 85 laps in the morning session, suggesting improved reliability compared to previous seasons.

This early positive feedback is a welcome sign for Ferrari, especially considering the introduction of new power unit and chassis regulations in F1 2026. Hamilton, who joined Ferrari after a less successful season last year, is keen to gather as much data as possible. Teammate Charles Leclerc also had a productive afternoon, adding to the data gathered.

Ferrari's progress is crucial as they prepare for the upcoming official test events in Bahrain next month. Hamilton emphasized the importance of gathering data on the car's engine and aerodynamics. The team aims to refine their strategies before the season opener. The entire 2026 season will be broadcast live on Sky Sports F1, beginning with the Australian GP in March.

The Barcelona shakedown provides a valuable opportunity for teams to assess their new cars. With the introduction of new regulations, the early testing phases are vital. The team will continue to analyze the data collected during the shakedown to optimize their approach before the official testing sessions in Bahrain. This will give them a better understanding of the new car.