Ferrari Make Late FP1 Driver Switch After Hamilton Setback at Japanese Grand Prix
By Hugo Harvey | March 25, 2026
Scuderia Ferrari have been forced into a late and unexpected driver change ahead of the opening practice session at the Japanese Grand Prix, with Lewis Hamilton ruled out of FP1 due to a sudden physical setback.
The development came just hours before cars were set to hit the track at the legendary Suzuka Circuit, catching much of the paddock off guard and prompting immediate speculation about the condition of the seven-time world champion.
Hamilton had been scheduled to take part in the session as Ferrari continue to fine-tune their 2026 challenger, the SF-26, in what has already proven to be a highly competitive start to the season. However, the team confirmed on Friday morning that the Briton would not participate in FP1, citing what they described as a “sudden and temporary physical issue.”
While Ferrari stopped short of providing a detailed medical explanation, sources close to the situation suggest that Hamilton experienced discomfort during pre-session preparations. Given the physically demanding nature of Suzuka a circuit known for its high-speed corners, rapid directional changes, and relentless strain on the body the team opted to take no risks.
Ferrari team principal Frédéric Vasseur emphasized that the decision was precautionary and made in consultation with the driver himself.
“Lewis is feeling okay, but we decided together that it’s best for him to sit out FP1,” Vasseur explained. “It’s a long weekend, and we want him at 100% for qualifying and the race. There is no need to take unnecessary risks at this stage.”
In Hamilton’s absence, Ferrari have turned to one of their most promising young talents, Oliver Bearman. The 20-year-old Briton was initially scheduled for simulator duties but received a late call-up to step into the cockpit for the opening session.
Bearman’s inclusion is far from a mere stopgap. The young driver has steadily built a strong reputation within Ferrari’s development structure, impressing engineers with his technical feedback, composure under pressure, and outright pace in previous outings. FP1 at Suzuka now presents him with a significant opportunity to further cement his credentials within the team.
From a technical standpoint, Bearman’s role in the session will be critical. Ferrari are continuing to refine the aerodynamic balance and tyre management characteristics of the SF-26, particularly in response to the early-season dominance shown by rivals Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team. Data gathered during FP1 will be essential in shaping the team’s setup direction for the remainder of the weekend.
Suzuka’s unique layout makes it one of the most valuable circuits for gathering high-quality data. Corners such as the Esses, Degner, and 130R demand precision and stability, while also placing significant thermal stress on tyres. With variable weather conditions forecast, understanding track evolution will be crucial placing even greater importance on Bearman’s performance in the session.
Despite the disruption, Ferrari remain confident that Hamilton will return to action later in the day for FP2. The team has indicated that his condition will be closely monitored throughout the day before any final decision is made. Internally, there is cautious optimism that the setback is minor and will not impact his broader race weekend.
Nevertheless, the situation has not gone unnoticed by rival teams. In a season where margins are already razor-thin and every session carries strategic weight, even a partial absence for a driver of Hamilton’s calibre can have implications. Missing valuable track time at a circuit like Suzuka where rhythm and familiarity are key could potentially influence both qualifying performance and race execution.
The early phase of the 2026 championship has already demonstrated how quickly momentum can shift. Ferrari are locked in a tight battle with Mercedes, and any disruption to their preparation risks handing an advantage to their competitors.
For now, the spotlight shifts firmly onto Bearman. FP1 offers him not only a chance to contribute to Ferrari’s immediate objectives but also an invaluable platform to showcase his long-term potential on one of Formula 1’s most demanding stages.
As the session unfolds, all eyes will be on both the young Briton’s performance and updates regarding Hamilton’s condition with Ferrari hoping that this precautionary move proves to be a minor footnote rather than the beginning of a larger concern.