"This generation of car is quite complex," Hamilton offers his verdict after opening pre-season testing

F1 Test, Sakhir, Bahrain International Circuit

Ferrari wrapped up the opening three‑day pre‑season test in Bahrain with a sense of quiet satisfaction, having completed an extensive programme and gathered a substantial amount of data on the new SF‑26.

Lewis Hamilton, who drove on the final day and logged an impressive 149 laps, described the week as a constructive and encouraging start to Ferrari’s 2026 campaign.

Hamilton was at the wheel throughout the third day, running a mixture of tyre compounds and completing both short and long runs as Ferrari continued to explore the behaviour of the radically new car.

By the end of the session, the team had accumulated 423 laps across the three days—an important achievement given the complexity of the new regulations.

Reflecting on the test, Hamilton said, “It’s been a positive week overall.” He emphasised the importance of the mileage Ferrari achieved, adding, “We completed a lot of laps and went through the full programme, which allowed us to gather plenty of useful data and learn more about the car.”

Hamilton noted that the SF‑26 has shown encouraging signs, but he also acknowledged the challenges that come with the new generation of machinery.

“The SF‑26 has felt generally good,” he explained, before stressing that “this generation of car is quite complex and finding the right operating window, especially with the tyres, is key.”

Ferrari’s structured approach allowed the team to make meaningful progress throughout the test. Hamilton highlighted this balance between discovery and refinement, saying: "We’ve made some good discoveries and also identified areas where we can improve.”

Looking ahead to the second and final pre‑season test, Hamilton underlined the importance of building on the foundation established in Bahrain. “We still have another test ahead of us, which will be important to build on what we’ve learned and continue making progress,” he said.