Hamilton up and running at Fiorano for Pirelli test

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While Formula 1 enjoys its unscheduled April break, the gates of Fiorano were wide open on Thursday as Lewis Hamilton jumped back into the cockpit for a two-day Pirelli development session with Ferrari.

With the track’s sprinkler system working overtime, the seven-time champion spent his day navigating an artificially drenched circuit to help fine-tune the future of F1’s wet-weather performance.

It was a marathon effort from the Briton, who racked up an incredible 142 laps – that’s over 400 kilometers of data-gathering in a single day!

From tackling the heavy spray of the full wet compounds to masterfully managing various Intermediate tyre configurations, Hamilton provided Pirelli and Ferrari engineers with the crucial feedback needed to widen the operating window in extreme conditions.

Every lap contributed to Pirelli’s ongoing mission to enhance grip, durability, and visibility in extreme conditions. Even in a non-competitive setting, performance remained sharp, with Hamilton clocking a best time of 1:01.031.

Hamilton’s development work continues on Friday for the second and final day of testing.

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.