F1 2026 Testing Live: Norris First on Track as Safety Concerns Loom
Follow live Formula 1 coverage from the Bahrain International Circuit, where the final pre-season test for the 2026 season is underway. With just a fortnight until the season opener in Australia, teams and drivers are making their last adjustments, but the session is overshadowed by pressing safety issues.
Norris Emerges First on Day One
McLaren's Lando Norris was the first driver to take to the track on Wednesday, kicking off the three-day test that runs from 7am to 4pm GMT each day. This event marks the final action before the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne on 6-8 March, following eight previous days of testing in Barcelona and Bahrain.
New Regulations Spark Mixed Reviews
The 2026 season introduces new engine and chassis regulations, which have already generated controversy. Max Verstappen of Red Bull described the new cars as "anti-racing" and "like Formula E on steroids," while Ferrari's Lewis Hamilton has also expressed dissatisfaction. Mercedes showed strength in Barcelona, but Red Bull, now partnered with Ford, impressed in last week's Sakhir test.
Safety Concerns Dominate Discussions
All 11 F1 teams are set to meet with the FIA on Wednesday to address multiple concerns. Key issues include an ongoing engine compression row and a new safety worry over race starts, after several cars struggled to move off the line during practice starts last week. Additional topics on the agenda involve "lift and coast" procedures and the new "overtake" mode.
Red Bull Hit by Designer Departure
In a blow to Red Bull, chief F1 designer Craig Skinner has left the team just two weeks before the season starts. Skinner, who joined in 2006 and worked closely with former design guru Adrian Newey, played a key role in Red Bull's dominant ground-effect era, including their near-perfect 2023 season. His exit adds to the team's challenges as they prepare for the new campaign.
Testing Schedule and Coverage
The test runs from Wednesday to Friday, with morning sessions from 7am to 11am GMT and afternoon sessions from midday to 4pm GMT. Live updates will continue throughout, providing insights into performance and safety developments as the 2026 season approaches.
