The primary two observe classes in Melbourne confirmed the soundness of the Ferrari SF-26, which, no less than over a single lap, appears to be effectively positioned. Furthermore, the shape proven by Lewis Hamilton might permit the Scuderia to struggle with each vehicles in opposition to the strongest rivals.
Ferrari drivers and crew leaders have repeatedly emphasised the significance of “specializing in themselves” with out being influenced by what occurs exterior the storage. Paradoxically, standing united throughout troublesome moments is less complicated than controlling the joy that comes, particularly from the skin, when the outcomes ignite the hopes of the ‘rosso’ followers. The one-two end on the finish of FP1 dominated the dialog throughout the two-hour break earlier than the afternoon session.
Reliability considerations for the Mercedes energy unit? Setup issues for McLaren and Crimson Bull? There have been loads of speculations to clarify the primary session of the 2026 race weekend.
The sixty minutes of the afternoon session introduced the hierarchy nearer to the expectations System 1 had upon arriving in Australia. In FP2, which ended with Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton in fourth and fifth respectively, Leclerc reported some points with setup modifications (“I attempted one thing fairly aggressive that didn’t work”), however total the image confirmed what was already seen throughout testing in Bahrain: a strong Ferrari, simply three tenths off the Mercedes benchmark.
“FP1 went effectively,” defined Charles Leclerc, “however in FP2 Mercedes confirmed their potential extra clearly.” That potential was notably evident in race tempo, with George Russell and Matteo Antonelli setting the rhythm. It’s not simple, nonetheless, to exactly assess Ferrari’s tempo. Lewis Hamilton accomplished solely 5 flying laps, whereas Charles Leclerc’s long term was too fragmented to supply dependable information.
“I don’t know the way a lot margin they nonetheless have in qualifying,” Charles Leclerc commented, “however in race tempo, they appear very robust in comparison with us, actually spectacular.” “We now have work to do, however as I’ve all the time mentioned,” he added, “Melbourne and Shanghai are in all probability the 2 most difficult tracks of the season for my driving fashion.” Certainly, Charles Leclerc completed each classes behind Lewis Hamilton, and for Lewis, this outcome—even with out factors—is a crucial signal.
Lewis Hamilton’s robust begin could also be the most effective information of the day for Ferrari. Three months in the past, Lewis was struggling in the back of the sphere, considerably behind his teammate. It was essential for him to start with a optimistic sign, and that’s precisely what occurred. Though these are solely observe classes, Lewis Hamilton’s phrases made it clear how necessary it was for him to restart with a distinct tempo.
“Actually a superb day,” admitted Lewis Hamilton. “It was unbelievable to get again on monitor and begin taking issues significantly. It’s fantastic to be right here, and I’m extremely grateful to be doing what I like and to see so many followers at this time. On monitor, it was difficult at occasions, however we maximized the laps we had and labored as successfully as attainable, gathering quite a lot of helpful data. There may be nonetheless quite a lot of work to do, however I’m wanting ahead to getting again within the automobile tomorrow.”
Whereas ready to see the place the SF-26 ranks within the early hierarchy on the monitor (which is able to grow to be clearer in qualifying), Ferrari has already obtained excellent news: the crew has two aggressive vehicles. After the top of final season, this was not a certainty.
Mar 6, 2026
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