Lewis Hamilton request blocked despite permission being given to F1 rival in ultimate snub

Hamilton had been hoping to get in the cockpit of a Ferrari at the season-ending test ahead of replacing Sainz.

Whilst Ferrari has shown flexibility in allowing their outgoing driver to test with his future team, Mercedes has taken a firmer stance regarding their departing seven-time world champion.

Wolff explained his decision during the Las Vegas Grand Prix press conference, citing existing commitments with Mercedes.

"We have contractual agreements with sponsors, we're having a farewell for Lewis, we're having lots of activities that are planned," Wolff said.

The matter was briefly discussed between Hamilton and Wolff, with both acknowledging it wouldn't be feasible.

"Him and I, we spoke about it shortly, and he said, 'I guess that's not going to work'," Wolff recalled, adding: "And I said, 'yeah, I don't think it's going to work.' And that was the whole thing."

Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur expressed understanding of Mercedes' position, acknowledging the contractual situation.

"There is a contract. You have to respect this," Vasseur stated at the Las Vegas press conference.

Vasseur explained his different approach with Sainz stemmed from wanting to thank the Spanish driver for his professionalism.

"I want to thank Carlos for the collaboration and I don't want to block him," he said.

"He did a very good job with us this season and a very professional one... And for me the best way to thank Carlos was to give him the opportunity to do the test with Williams."

The Abu Dhabi test, scheduled following the final race of the season at Yas Marina Circuit, is a one-day event where teams can operate two cars.

One car is designated for Pirelli tyre-testing with experienced drivers, whilst the other is reserved for young drivers to gain valuable track experience.

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The test represents a rare opportunity for drivers to familiarise themselves with new machinery ahead of the following season.

This format has made the testing permissions particularly significant for drivers changing teams, highlighting the contrast between Ferrari's flexibility with Sainz and Mercedes' stance on Hamilton.