Hamilton out, Zhou in: Ferrari forced into late Mugello shake-up

Hamilton, who was initially scheduled to take to the track in Mugello, is now expected to miss out on the day’s running, according to a report from Pirelli. The Scuderia Ferrari driver had previously announced on his social media the uncertainty surrounding the health of his pet. Hamilton also requested prayers for the bulldog, whom he described as being in a critical condition.

Roscoe, who over the years has become a popular figure within the F1 circle, has reportedly been battling pneumonia. The 12-year-old pet frequently visits the vet, and Hamilton has since switched him to a vegan diet.

The Pirelli tyre test, which Hamilton is now set to miss, comes amid preparations for the sweeping changes set to arrive in Formula 1 from the 2026 campaign. The cars will undergo major updates, both to their engine components as well as chassis and tyre dimensions.

Although the 2026 tyres will retain their 18-inch diameter, the front tyre width will be reduced from 305mm to 275mm, while the rear tyres will shrink from 405mm to 375mm.

Hamilton will now be replaced by Zhou Guanyu, who serves as a reserve driver for Scuderia Ferrari. The Chinese driver is expected to hit the track in Mugello alongside Monegasque teammate Charles Leclerc.

The Ferrari test follows that of the Haas F1 Team, who on Tuesday had both Oliver Bearman and Esteban Ocon complete mileage in a mule version of the VF-24 car, in what was a weather-affected outing for the team.

The American outfit will also continue its running at the circuit after announcing that former driver Romain Grosjean will drive an F1 car for the first time since his infamous incident at the 2020 Bahrain Grand Prix.

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