Lewis Hamilton will not be participating in the Pirelli tire test with Ferrari on Friday, September 26, at the Mugello circuit in Italy. The seven-time champion was scheduled to share driving duties with Charles Leclerc, but has been replaced by former Formula 1 driver Zhou Guanyu.
The test is part of Pirelli’s program to develop tires that will debut in 2026, a year marked by significant changes to the chassis and power unit regulations. Pirelli has been conducting sessions throughout the season with different teams, using adapted 2024 cars to accommodate the new compounds.
On Thursday, Esteban Ocon and Oliver Bearman had already driven the Haas ‘mule’ car. On Friday, Ferrari was called upon to collaborate, but Hamilton ended up being absent without an official justification at this time.
Hamilton recently revealed that his dog Roscoe has suffered a serious health issue, asking fans for positive thoughts and prayers, but it has not been confirmed whether this was the reason for his absence, although it is likely to be the case.
In Hamilton’s place, Zhou Guanyu, who returned to Ferrari this year as a reserve driver after leaving Sauber at the end of 2024, will take over the role alongside Leclerc.
Another notable development will be the participation of Romain Grosjean, who will have the opportunity to drive a Formula 1 car for the first time since his serious accident at the 2020 Bahrain Grand Prix.
Hamilton will return to the cockpit next weekend at the Singapore Grand Prix, where he will be seeking his first podium since joining Ferrari this season.
