Lewis Hamilton wrapped up the first week of pre‑season testing in Bahrain on a positive note, highlighting a “key” breakthrough in Ferrari’s tyre understanding and praising the progress made on the SF‑26. The seven‑time world champion, who logged 190 laps in a day‑and‑a‑half at the Sakhir circuit, finished third overall in the session, while team‑mate Charles Leclerc topped the field with a record‑high 218 laps.
Ferrari’s “good discoveries” on the SF‑26
Speaking to the media after the final run, Hamilton said the SF‑26 “has felt generally good, but this generation of car is quite complex and finding the right operating window, especially with the tyres, is key.” He added that the team had “made some good discoveries” and identified clear areas for improvement. The “good discoveries” refer to new data on tyre degradation and optimal temperature windows, which Hamilton believes could narrow the performance gap between Mercedes and the Italian rivals.
Lap counts and overall speed
Hamilton’s 190 laps placed him third fastest across all teams for the week, a solid showing given the limited time the seven‑time champion had in the Mercedes W14. Leclerc’s 218 laps not only set the benchmark for the session but also underscored Ferrari’s aggressive approach to data gathering. The session also saw Mercedes’ debutant Antonelli top the timing sheets, a reminder that the field remains tightly packed as teams chase the elusive perfect set‑up.
Why the tyre insight matters
Ferrari’s new tyre model for 2026 introduces a higher degree of thermal sensitivity, a factor that has already prompted criticism from drivers about the sport’s “ridiculously complex” energy‑management rules. Hamilton’s comment that a “key breakthrough” has been made in understanding these new tyres suggests Ferrari may have found a more stable operating envelope, potentially translating into longer stints and fewer pit stops once the season starts.
What’s next for the teams?
Both Mercedes and Ferrari have another day of testing scheduled before the official pre‑season programme concludes. Hamilton emphasized that “we still have another test ahead of us, which will be important to build on what we’ve learned and continue making progress.” The upcoming runs will likely focus on refining tyre maps, verifying aerodynamic updates, and testing race‑distance fuel loads under the new regulations.
Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see whether Ferrari can convert these “good discoveries” into a competitive edge, or if Mercedes’ experience with the hybrid power unit will keep them ahead in the championship battle. Share your thoughts in the comments and spread the word – the 2026 season is already shaping up to be a technical showdown.
