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Lewis Hamilton sent shockwaves through the Formula 1 world during Bahrain’s pre-season testing, delivering a jaw-dropping performance for Ferrari that left fans and rivals buzzing. In his first public outing with the iconic Italian team, the seven-time world champion shattered expectations—and lap records—while outpacing former Mercedes teammate George Russell by a staggering four-tenths of a second.
Under the desert sun (and surprise rain showers), Hamilton’s seamless adaptation to the scarlet car hinted at a thrilling new chapter for the British legend. But was this a glimpse of Ferrari’s 2025 potential, or just a tantalizing teaser?
Lewis Hamilton’s Bahrain masterclass
Hamilton wasted no time asserting his dominance, obliterating the previous testing benchmark set by McLaren’s Lando Norris. Clocking a blistering 1:29.379 on soft tires, he not only surpassed Charles Leclerc’s 2024 Ferrari qualifying time in Bahrain but edged within 0.2 seconds of Max Verstappen’s pole position lap from last year.
Sky Sports F1 analyst Karun Chandhok noted, “The car finally responded to his touch. Yesterday, the front end struggled, but today? Pure harmony.”
Even a mid-session rain delay couldn’t cool Lewis Hamilton’s momentum. When the track dried, he unleashed back-to-back flying laps, leaving Russell and Williams’ Carlos Sainz—who flirted with the top spot on harder tires—chasing shadows.
Weather Woes and Drama: Piastri-Hulkenberg Clash
The session’s rhythm was disrupted by rare Bahrain rainfall, reducing track action for nearly an hour. But the real drama unfolded when McLaren’s Oscar Piastri collided with Sauber’s Nico Hülkenberg at Turn 8. Piastri, attempting an ambitious overtake, locked up and nudged Hülkenberg’s rear, damaging his own front wing. The Sauber escaped unscathed, but the incident underscored the high stakes of pre-season experimentation.
Ferrari’s new era: Hamilton’s seamless transition
Lewis Hamilton’s 45 laps in the SF-25 weren’t just about speed—they signaled his growing synergy with Ferrari. Unlike his tentative first day, where the car’s front end felt “unpredictable,” Thursday’s runs showcased refined balance and aggression.
Teammate Charles Leclerc, observing from the garage, praised Hamilton’s adaptability: “He’s integrating faster than anyone expected. The energy here… it’s electric.”
Meanwhile, Mercedes’ George Russell logged a session-high 71 laps, emphasizing reliability over pace.
“We’re focusing on race simulations,” Russell downplayed. “But seeing Lewis up there? It’s a reminder of what he’s capable of.”
Rivals Take Note: Red Bull’s quiet confidence
Red Bull opted for a low-key strategy, with reserve driver Liam Lawson completing just 28 laps—the fewest of any team. With Max Verstappen set to take over Friday’s sessions, the reigning champions seem content to fly under the radar. “No need to show our cards yet,” a team insider smirked.
Lewis Hamilton’s Bahrain flourish has reignited hopes of a Ferrari resurgence—and a potential title showdown with Verstappen. While testing times are rarely definitive, the Briton’s swagger in red speaks volumes. As the 2025 season looms, one question dominates: Is Hamilton’s Ferrari fairytale just beginning?
