Ferrari completes 270 laps at Abu Dhabi post-season testing
Scuderia Ferrari concluded the 2025 Formula 1 season with an intense day of work at the Yas Marina Circuit. The single post-season test session featured Charles Leclerc, Lewis Hamilton, and Dino Beganovic, each focusing on different but complementary programs aimed at preparing for the 2026 season.
Leclerc and Hamilton on the “mule car” to test 2026 tires
The two main drivers drove the SF25 in mule car configuration, designed to test Pirelli’s new tires for next season. These tires retain the 18-inch rim but are narrower compared to the 2025 specification.
Charles Leclerc ran in the morning on C5, C4, and C3 compounds. He completed 75 laps, covering a total of 396 kilometers, with a best lap of 1’26″417 on C5 tires.
Lewis Hamilton took over in the afternoon, running C2, C3, C4, and C5 compounds for a total of 73 laps and 386 kilometers, setting his best lap at 1’26″138 on C5. Weather conditions remained stable throughout the day, with clear skies, 26°C air temperature, and 30°C track temperature.
Dino Beganovic, meanwhile, carried out the FIA-mandated Young Driver Test. He drove the SF25 in standard configuration, completing 122 laps, equal to 644 kilometers, with a best lap of 1’25″720 on C5. His program also included long-run simulations in the afternoon, completed without issues.
Ferrari drivers’ comments looking toward 2026
Leclerc reflected on the day: “It was a very positive day. We had a lot to test, and it was important to run on these new compounds to start understanding them and carry this knowledge into next year. Finally, I want to sincerely thank everyone for the support during this season. See you next year.”
Hamilton highlighted the work achieved: “Today we tested the new tires and completed our program. It was a great learning opportunity. I am truly grateful to all the guys in the garage for working so hard during this last day of testing at the end of a long season.”
Dino Beganovic expressed his satisfaction at returning to the Ferrari cockpit: “It was really nice to be back in the Ferrari car. We completed the planned program, and I am happy with how everything went. I can’t wait to focus on the new season.”
A productive day ahead of 2026
The test provided Ferrari with a large amount of valuable data to prepare for the next season, particularly on the new tires to be introduced in 2026. The team completed the entire planned program without any issues, with a total of 270 laps completed by the three drivers. The information gathered will now be analyzed and integrated into winter preparations for the new technical cycle.
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