F1 Bahrain pre-season test – Day 1 2025 best

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F1 Bahrain

The 2025 Formula 1 pre-season testing commenced on February 26 at the Bahrain International Circuit in Sakhir, marking the first of three days of crucial evaluations ahead of the season opener in Australia on March 16. This year’s testing is particularly significant, as it is the final season before the introduction of new technical regulations in 2026. citeturn0search23

Driver Line-ups and Schedule

Each of the ten teams has designated specific drivers for the three-day test:

• McLaren: Oscar Piastri (AM) and Lando Norris (PM)
• Ferrari: Lewis Hamilton (AM) and Charles Leclerc (PM)
• Red Bull Racing: Liam Lawson (AM) and Max Verstappen (PM)
• Mercedes: Andrea Kimi Antonelli (AM) and George Russell (PM)
• Aston Martin: Fernando Alonso (AM) and Lance Stroll (PM)
• Alpine: Jack Doohan (AM) and Pierre Gasly (PM)
• Haas: Oliver Bearman (AM) and Esteban Ocon (PM)
• Racing Bulls: Yuki Tsunoda (AM) and Isack Hadjar (PM)
• Williams: Alex Albon (AM) and Carlos Sainz (PM)
• Sauber: Nico Hülkenberg (AM) and Gabriel Bortoleto (PM)

The testing sessions are scheduled from 10:00 to 14:00 and 15:00 to 19:00 local time, with a one-hour lunch break in between. citeturn0search2

F1 Bahrain Key Highlights from Day 1

• Lewis Hamilton’s Ferrari Debut: Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton made his official debut with Ferrari, transitioning from Mercedes at the end of the previous season. Hamilton expressed enthusiasm about the new challenge, aiming for a record eighth championship title. citeturn0news11
• Max Verstappen’s Red Bull Performance: Reigning champion Max Verstappen took to the track with Red Bull Racing, showcasing the team’s preparations for the upcoming season. Verstappen’s performance is closely watched, given his pursuit of a fifth consecutive championship. citeturn0news12
• Team Dynamics and New Signings: The 2025 season features significant driver changes, with notable moves such as Carlos Sainz joining Williams and Nico Hülkenberg at Sauber. These shifts have generated considerable interest regarding team dynamics and performance expectations.

Testing Conditions and Challenges

The Bahrain International Circuit is known for its challenging conditions, including high temperatures and strong winds, which can affect car performance and driver endurance. Teams are utilizing this testing period to fine-tune their setups and assess the reliability of their vehicles under these demanding conditions.

Looking Ahead

As the pre-season testing continues over the next two days, teams will focus on gathering data, evaluating new components, and refining strategies. The insights gained during this period are crucial for teams to optimize their performance ahead of the season opener in Australia.

For fans and stakeholders, the Bahrain pre-season test offers a valuable glimpse into the teams’ preparations and potential for the upcoming season. While testing times are not always indicative of actual race performance, they provide a foundation for understanding each team’s capabilities and areas for improvement.

In summary, Day 1 of the 2025 Formula 1 pre-season testing in Bahrain has set the stage for an exciting season ahead, with new driver line-ups, team dynamics, and technical developments all contributing to the anticipation surrounding the upcoming races.

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