Hamilton Breaks Tradition as Ferrari Unleash Secret Weapon in Make-or-Break Mugello Test
In a rare mid-season twist, Ferrari have managed to convince Lewis Hamilton to do something he’s traditionally avoided throughout his Formula 1 career — participate in a private test during a race break. Alongside Charles Leclerc, Hamilton is hitting the track at Mugello this week to trial a major rear suspension upgrade that could define Ferrari’s 2025 campaign and perhaps salvage their underwhelming 2024 season.
The test, officially listed as a ‘filming day’ to comply with F1 regulations, will see both Ferrari drivers complete up to 200km at the Tuscan circuit. While filming days are typically used for promotional content, teams often leverage them to gather vital data, especially when testing new components. In this case, the rear suspension system — set to debut at the Belgian Grand Prix in Spa — could be a game-changer. Ferrari believe that had it been in place at Silverstone, Hamilton might have outpaced both McLarens, showing the potential of this crucial update.
Hamilton’s involvement is telling. Known for preferring to conserve energy during the intense F1 calendar, the seven-time world champion has rarely participated in optional test sessions, especially during mid-season breaks. His decision to take part in this one signals both his commitment to Ferrari’s long-term project and the importance of the new suspension. It also reflects a notable shift in his approach: more hands-on, more invested, and perhaps more open-minded as he adapts to a new chapter in his career.
For Ferrari, the stakes are high. With just four podiums so far in 2024 and the sweeping 2026 regulation changes fast approaching, there’s limited time left to develop the current car. If this suspension upgrade fails to deliver, their season could effectively be over. But if it works, it might just be the first step in their long-awaited return to title contention — and Hamilton’s decision to roll up his sleeves could be the catalyst they needed.
