Hamilton evaluates Ferrari performance during first practice at Madring

Lewis Hamilton completed his first day of track sessions at the Madring circuit, finishing FP1 in fourth place as Ferrari gathered data on the new venue. While Hamilton initially posted competitive times early in the session, he noted challenges with car balance as the day progressed. Mercedes set the pace on the soft compound tyres, with Russell and Antonelli occupying the top two spots in the timesheets. Ferrari remains optimistic that the track characteristics of the Madring will suit the SF-26 better than previous rounds. Hamilton and the team plan to review telemetry data overnight to refine the car's setup before qualifying. The driver cited the need for adjustments in the optimal operating window for the vehicle to remain competitive against Mercedes heading into tomorrow.

• 6:00 AMYahoo Sports — Hamilton sends Ferrari warning despite promising first taste of Madring