Ferrari: Charles Leclerc does fewer laps than Lewis Hamilton at Fiorano, but there’s a reason. Charles Leclerc does fewer laps than Lewis Hamilton at Fiorano.

For the many fans present at Fiorano, it was undoubtedly an exciting and unforgettable day. In addition to Lewis Hamilton’s debut as a Ferrari driver, the Tifosi also had the chance to see Charles Leclerc on track. However, he completed fewer laps than his teammate—let’s find out why.

As we’ve already explained in other articles, tests like today’s are meant for drivers to regain familiarity with the car, the procedures, and the physical demands of driving a Formula 1 car. Moreover, starting this year, there are stricter limitations on the number of kilometers drivers can cover during the season.

Ferrari has decided to hold another test in Barcelona to rely on more favorable weather compared to the very “British” conditions encountered at Fiorano.

But why did Charles Leclerc do fewer laps than Lewis Hamilton?
The answer comes directly from Ferrari. The Maranello team published a recap article at the end of the day, detailing the program carried out by both drivers. Specifically, it stated that “Leclerc’s program was different because the Monegasque driver had very little to discover about the SF-23. For him, it was about regaining confidence with the steering wheel and the team, always under the supervision of Fred Vasseur and Jerome d’Ambrosio.”

Charles Leclerc still completed fourteen laps, compared to the thirty covered by Lewis Hamilton on his first day as a Ferrari driver. Additionally, given the less-than-ideal weather, it seems that car number 16 also went on track to thank the many fans who had been at Fiorano all day.