
Lando
In the opening day of pre-season testing for the 2025 Formula 1 season at the Bahrain International Circuit, McLaren’s Lando Norris set the fastest time, signaling a strong start for the team. Norris’s lap of 1:30.430 was 0.157 seconds quicker than Mercedes’ George Russell and 0.2 seconds faster than Red Bull’s Max Verstappen. citeturn0search6
The session was notably marked by the participation of several rookie drivers, each making their mark in the competitive environment of Formula 1.
Isack Hadjar
Isack Hadjar, stepping up from Formula 2, joined Racing Bulls for his rookie season. Known for his impressive raw pace, Hadjar faced challenges during the session, including a spin at Turn 2. Despite this, he demonstrated potential that could make him a driver to watch in the upcoming season. citeturn0search5
Kimi Antonelli
Mercedes’ Kimi Antonelli, another highly anticipated rookie, delivered a commendable performance by securing a top-six finish. His consistent results have positioned him as a promising talent, with his performance in Bahrain further solidifying his reputation. citeturn0news15
Lando Oliver Bearman
Haas’s Oliver Bearman, despite a challenging start to the season, managed to secure points in both the Chinese and Japanese Grand Prix. His resilience and adaptability suggest a bright future ahead as he gains more experience on the track. citeturn0news15
Liam Lawson

Red Bull Racing’s Liam Lawson, though relatively new with just 11 races under his belt, has been thrust into a challenging role alongside Max Verstappen. His performances will be crucial in assessing his development and potential within the team. citeturn0search3
Luke Browning
Driving for Williams, Luke Browning impressed by finishing sixth in the session. His performance highlighted his potential and added to the excitement surrounding the new generation of drivers entering the sport. citeturn0news14
Gabriel Bortoleto
Gabriel Bortoleto, representing Kick Sauber, showcased his skills by securing a top-12 finish. His performance during the session indicated his readiness to compete at the highest level. citeturn0search0
The session also saw some unusual occurrences, such as Fernando Alonso’s steering wheel detaching mid-session. Despite this, Alonso safely returned to the pits, and the issue was promptly addressed. citeturn0news14
Overall, the first day of testing in Bahrain provided valuable insights into the teams’ preparations and the rookies’ adaptability to the demands of Formula 1. As the pre-season continues, teams and drivers will refine their setups and strategies, aiming for a successful start to the 2025 season.
navlistKey Moments from Bahrain’s Pre-Season Testingturn0news14,turn0news15,turn0news16In the opening day of pre-season testing for the 2025 Formula 1 season at the Bahrain International Circuit, McLaren’s Lando Norris set the fastest time, signaling a strong start for the team. Norris’s lap of 1:30.430 was 0.157 seconds quicker than Mercedes’ George Russell and 0.2 seconds faster than Red Bull’s Max Verstappen. citeturn0search6
The session was notably marked by the participation of several rookie drivers, each making their mark in the competitive environment of Formula 1.
Isack Hadjar

Isack Hadjar, stepping up from Formula 2, joined Racing Bulls for his rookie season. Known for his impressive raw pace, Hadjar faced challenges during the session, including a spin at Turn 2. Despite this, he demonstrated potential that could make him a driver to watch in the upcoming season. citeturn0search5
Kimi Antonelli
Mercedes’ Kimi Antonelli, another highly anticipated rookie, delivered a commendable performance by securing a top-six finish. His consistent results have positioned him as a promising talent, with his performance in Bahrain further solidifying his reputation. citeturn0news15
Oliver Bearman
Haas’s Oliver Bearman, despite a challenging start to the season, managed to secure points in both the Chinese and Japanese Grand Prix. His resilience and adaptability suggest a bright future ahead as he gains more experience on the track. citeturn0news15
Liam Lawson
Red Bull Racing’s Liam Lawson, though relatively new with just 11 races under his belt, has been thrust into a challenging role alongside Max Verstappen. His performances will be crucial in assessing his development and potential within the team. citeturn0search3
Luke Browning
Driving for Williams, Luke Browning impressed by finishing sixth in the session. His performance highlighted his potential and added to the excitement surrounding the new generation of drivers entering the sport. citeturn0news14
Gabriel Bortoleto

Gabriel Bortoleto, representing Kick Sauber, showcased his skills by securing a top-12 finish. His performance during the session indicated his readiness to compete at the highest level. citeturn0search0
The session also saw some unusual occurrences, such as Fernando Alonso’s steering wheel detaching mid-session. Despite this, Alonso safely returned to the pits, and the issue was promptly addressed. citeturn0news14
Overall, the first day of testing in Bahrain provided valuable insights into the teams’ preparations and the rookies’ adaptability to the demands of Formula 1. As the pre-season continues, teams and drivers will refine their setups and strategies, aiming for a successful start to the 2025 season.
navlistKey Moments from Bahrain’s Pre-Season Testingturn0news14,turn0news15,turn0news16