FERRARI ADMITS HAMILTON SLOWER THAN LECLERC – Should Fans Be Worried?

Ferrari Admits Hamilton Trails Leclerc in Early Testing—Should Fans Be Worried?

Hamilton’s Ferrari Debut Shows Early Gap to Leclerc, But Team Remains Unconcerned

Lewis Hamilton’s much-anticipated debut in Ferrari red has sparked excitement and speculation ahead of the 2025 Formula 1 season. However, early pre-season testing figures suggest that the seven-time world champion has some catching up to do—something Ferrari acknowledges but isn’t panicking over.

Reports from *Marca* (Spain) and *La Repubblica* (Italy) indicate that Charles Leclerc set an impressive benchmark at Fiorano, clocking a lap time of 56.06 seconds in the new SF-25. This lap is reportedly second only to Michael Schumacher’s legendary 2004 record at the Maranello circuit.

Unofficially, Hamilton’s times suggest he was up to eight-tenths of a second slower than his Monegasque teammate—an apparent deficit that could raise eyebrows. However, Ferrari is taking a measured approach, recognizing that adjusting to a new car takes time.

Ferrari Downplays Hamilton’s Slower Times

Despite the early gap, Ferrari’s new technical chief, Loïc Serra, remains unshaken. Serra, who previously worked with Hamilton at Mercedes, believes the Briton’s adjustment period is normal.

“It doesn’t worry me,” Serra told *La Gazzetta dello Sport*. “Lewis is an extraordinary driver who thrives on challenges. I have no doubt he will soon be just as fast as he was in his peak years.”

Fiorano, Ferrari’s private 1.8-mile circuit, is primarily used for shakedowns rather than full-fledged performance assessments. While an eight-tenths gap may seem significant on paper, it’s not necessarily reflective of how Hamilton will perform when the season begins.

Hamilton Admits Learning Curve, But Stays Confident

Hamilton himself acknowledges the transition from Mercedes to Ferrari is a major one. Having raced exclusively with Mercedes-powered engines for two decades, he is adapting to an entirely different car philosophy.

“Everything is different,” Hamilton admitted. “It’s rare for a car to suit you perfectly from day one, but I don’t think I need to change my driving style. Charles and I have similar approaches, and I already feel comfortable.”

The 40-year-old Briton first drove the SF-25 on January 22, completing 30 laps in what was more of a familiarization session than a real performance test. His true challenge will come in Bahrain, where official pre-season testing begins on February 26. That’s when he’ll get a clearer idea of his standing relative to Leclerc under race-like conditions.

Leclerc Unbothered by Hamilton’s Arrival

While Hamilton’s move to Ferrari has dominated headlines, Leclerc remains unfazed by the increased attention surrounding the team. Now entering his sixth season with Ferrari, he knows how to handle the pressure.

“There’s always a lot of attention on Ferrari,” Leclerc told *L’Équipe*. “But with Lewis here, it’s even bigger. That’s understandable—he’s a legend of our sport. But it doesn’t change my approach. The media focus is more intense, but I’ve prepared the same way, focusing on improving every winter.”

Leclerc’s strong early test times indicate he is in good form. His reported 56.06-second lap showcases the SF-25’s potential, and his familiarity with the team gives him a natural advantage over Hamilton, who is still settling in.

Ferrari Playing the Long Game

Ferrari isn’t rushing to make judgments based on early test figures. The team is prioritizing patience over panic, understanding that Hamilton’s real test will come in actual race conditions.

Serra, who worked closely with Hamilton at Mercedes, has no doubt that the Briton will find his rhythm soon. Ferrari’s goal is to ensure both drivers are comfortable and competitive by the time the season kicks off in Bahrain.

Until then, Hamilton’s adaptation process continues, and Ferrari sees no reason to overanalyze a few early laps at Fiorano. The real battle begins when the lights go out on race day.