Lewis Hamilton drove Ferrari's new SF-26 car for the first time at Fiorano, just 47 days after his difficult 2025 season. He declared himself 'massively excited' for 'new beginnings' as F1 enters its biggest rule change in a generation. Hamilton and teammate Charles Leclerc completed a handful of laps during the launch shakedown.

The 2026 regulations overhaul chassis, aerodynamics, power units, and fuel, demanding teams relearn car development. Ferrari principal Frederic Vasseur confirmed the initial run collected needed data without major issues. For Hamilton, now in his 20th F1 season, the reset is crucial after a winless debut year with the Scuderia.

Next, teams head to Barcelona for the official shakedown test, where rivals will first see each other's concepts. Hamilton is eager to 'stretch the legs' of the SF-26. After a winless 2025, Ferrari's pressure is immense to deliver a car capable of challenging for victories and championships.