Initially, reports indicated that Lewis Hamilton would not take part in Ferrari’s exclusive filming day at Mugello, where Charles Leclerc was slated to evaluate a new upgrade package. However, recent updates reveal a reversal of this plan, with Hamilton now reportedly attending the private test to assess the important rear suspension improvement for the SF-25.
Since joining Ferrari during the winter break after twelve years with Mercedes, Hamilton has brought his seven world championships’ worth of experience, but his performance has not matched his past achievements so far. This private test offers a chance for the 40-year-old Briton to get critical track time with updates designed to enhance Ferrari’s competitiveness.
Challenges Faced by Hamilton After His Move to Ferrari
Switching from Mercedes to Ferrari presented significant challenges for Hamilton, including adapting to a different powertrain, brake system, and team dynamics. The transition has been difficult, with the Briton often trailing his younger teammate, Charles Leclerc, during the early 2025 season. Despite a strong showing at the British Grand Prix, where Hamilton outperformed Leclerc and earned 12 points to Leclerc’s zero, the seven-time world champion continued to express dissatisfaction with the car.
Italian media had suggested that Leclerc and Antonio Giovinazzi were the primary drivers for the rear suspension test at Mugello. In contrast, Autoracer reports that Hamilton will indeed join the session, which could provide him with valuable track time and help him better understand and exploit the upgrade.
Hamilton’s Struggles with the SF-25 Car Performance
Throughout the season, Hamilton has been openly critical of the SF-25, describing its handling as a major obstacle. While he finished ahead of Leclerc at Silverstone, Hamilton candidly shared his difficulties with the car’s behavior, particularly in complex conditions.
“[It was a] difficult race, not a great one from my side. I did the best I could. As it showed there was plenty of mistakes out there and very, very tricky conditions, in really a very, very hard car to drive here – this car doesn’t like those conditions. Not ideal, but we got some points at least.”
—Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari Driver
“The tyres [were] dropping off, the car doesn’t like low-speed corners, lots of understeer, and I started knocking out the left front and then just couldn’t keep up.”
—Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari Driver
Currently, Hamilton is positioned sixth in the championship standings, just ahead of Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli after 12 rounds of racing.
What This Test Means for Ferrari and Hamilton Going Forward
The upcoming private test at Mugello represents a crucial opportunity for Hamilton to familiarize himself with the new rear suspension system, aiming to improve the SF-25’s handling and competitiveness. This development could help reduce the gap between him and Leclerc, as well as tighten Ferrari’s performance overall. With ongoing challenges causing frustration, the test may mark a key moment in Hamilton’s adjustment to Ferrari’s car and team environment.
As the season progresses, close attention will be paid to how effectively the suspension upgrade helps Ferrari and whether Hamilton can regain stronger form to challenge the front runners more consistently.
