Hamilton Stunned by Ferrari 2026 Debut as Haas Unveils Toyota Partnership

Lewis Hamilton described his first laps in Ferrari's 2026 SF-26 as a stunning and unforgettable experience, marking the official beginning of his highly anticipated tenure with the Scuderia. The team completed a successful shakedown at Fiorano, while Haas simultaneously launched a bold new chapter by debuting their Toyota-powered VF-26 on track.

Why it matters:

The 2026 season represents a massive regulatory overhaul featuring active aerodynamics and increased electrical power. Early track appearances by Ferrari and Haas provide the first tangible evidence of how teams are interpreting these new rules, with Hamilton's early feedback and Haas's new engine partnership serving as early indicators of potential shifts in the pecking order.

The Details:

• Hamilton's Reaction: The seven-time champion expressed deep emotion after driving the red car for the first time, stating, "I'll never be able to forget" the experience. His immediate positive sentiment is a morale booster for the Tifosi.
• Ferrari's Progress: Charles Leclerc confirmed a "significant detail" regarding the SF-26's initial run. While technical specifics are scarce, the focus now shifts to reliability and performance data gathering for the upcoming Barcelona test.
• Haas and Toyota: The American outfit became the seventh team to run their 2026 challenger. The debut of the Toyota-backed power unit signals a strategic pivot for Haas, aiming to leverage the Japanese manufacturer's expertise in the new hybrid era.
• Verstappen's Take: Amidst the car launches, Max Verstappen emphasized that adaptability will be key. He noted that the "very important" factor for success under the new regulations will be how quickly drivers can handle the distinct characteristics of the new cars.
• Motorsport Crossover: While F1 teams tested, the Daytona 24 Hours commenced with dramatic opening-lap incidents. Porsche managed to navigate the chaos to storm into the lead, highlighting the intensity of the endurance racing calendar.

What's next:

The paddock now converges on Barcelona for a more comprehensive test session.

• Ferrari and Haas will look to build on their initial shakedown data.
• The rest of the grid will join the track, providing the first true opportunity to compare performance levels across the new 2026 specification.