Video: Lewis Hamilton spins during Barcelona F1 testing, Ferrari avoids damage. Lewis Hamilton had a minor spin between turns 10 and 11 during F1 testing in Barcelona.

During today’s pre-season testing at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, Lewis Hamilton experienced a minor spin while driving the Ferrari SF-26. The incident occurred between turns 10 and 11 under acceleration, but the British driver managed to control the car without causing any damage to the Maranello team’s vehicle.

Although spins are a relatively common occurrence during early testing sessions, this one was particularly notable as it involved Lewis Hamilton, one of the most experienced drivers on the grid, and the new 2026 Ferrari SF-26. The car, which is still in the early stages of evaluation, handled the spin well, demonstrating the robustness of Ferrari’s chassis and electronic control systems. The Briton was able to regain control quickly, avoiding contact with barriers or other trackside obstacles.

Pre-season testing in Barcelona is always a critical time for teams to gather data, particularly on car balance, tyre behavior, and aerodynamic performance. For Ferrari, the incident served as a small reminder of the challenges that come with pushing a car to its limits early in the development cycle. Despite the spin, the team was able to continue its programme without interruptions, collecting valuable feedback for both the engineers and Lewis Hamilton himself.

Video footage of the spin shows the SF-26 slightly oversteering through the fast left-hand exit of turn 10 before Lewis Hamilton carefully corrected the car’s trajectory. Such moments, while minor, provide engineers with real-time insights into car dynamics and how the driver can interact with the new systems under pressure. It also underscores the importance of testing in various conditions, as the team evaluates how the car reacts to different traction and grip levels on track.

With the 2026 Formula 1 season fast approaching, these early spins and minor incidents are expected. They allow drivers and engineers to fine-tune settings, identify potential weaknesses, and ensure the car is fully optimized for competitive performance once racing begins. Ferrari can take reassurance from the fact that the SF-26 endured the spin without sustaining damage, maintaining its schedule for the rest of the day’s testing.

Stay tuned for more updates from Barcelona as teams continue their preparations ahead of the 2026 Formula 1 season, with Ferrari, Mercedes, Red Bull, and other teams running crucial programmes to start the year strong.