Day one of testing in Bahrain was Hamilton’s first chance to get a true feel of the SF-25. Hamilton and Charles Leclerc conducted a shakedown last week at Ferrari’s home track at Fiorano. However, given the short and tight nature of the Italian circuit, it would have been difficult for either driver to get up to speed.

Beyond the safe confines of Ferrari HQ in Maranello and the adjoining Fiorano circuit, this week in Bahrain will be the first time we see Lewis Hamilton properly unleashed for the fabled Scuderia. This week’s official – and only – three-day pre-season test in Bahrain will give the waiting world a first glimpse at the pecking order in Formula One this year,

Vasseur said Hamilton was the “perfect fit” for Ferrari right now, while Leclerc thought the Briton was joining at the ideal point as the team’s mentality is now stronger than ever, in part thanks to Vasseur’s leadership. No longer in a rebuild, the championship is a realistic goal for Ferrari.