F1 2026 Pre-Season Testing: Verstappen Hits Bahrain Track Amid Safety Concerns
Welcome to live coverage of day two at the Bahrain International Circuit, where Formula 1 teams are conducting their final pre-season test before the 2026 campaign kicks off in Australia in a fortnight. With new engine and chassis regulations in place, this three-day event marks the last opportunity for adjustments ahead of the season-opening Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne from 6-8 March.
Testing Overview and Key Drivers
The grid has already completed eight days of testing, including five private sessions in Barcelona and three last week in Bahrain. Mercedes emerged strongest from Barcelona, but Red Bull, now partnered with Ford, impressed in Sakhir despite Max Verstappen's criticism of the new cars as "anti-racing" and "like Formula E on steroids." Ferrari's Lewis Hamilton has also expressed concerns about aspects of the machinery.
Today, Max Verstappen is set for his first full day of running in the Red Bull car, adding excitement to the proceedings. The testing schedule includes extensive laps and a new practice start procedure to evaluate safety protocols.
Day One Leaderboard and Lap Counts
On day one, George Russell of Mercedes topped the leaderboard with a time of 1:33.459, narrowly ahead of Oscar Piastri of McLaren by 0.010 seconds. Other notable performances included Charles Leclerc of Ferrari in third and Lando Norris of McLaren in fourth.
Afternoon laps completed on day one featured drivers like Oscar Piastri with 70 laps, George Russell with 76, and Lewis Hamilton with 44. Red Bull's Isack Hadjar managed 66 laps despite morning issues, while others like Lance Stroll and Carlos Sainz logged significant mileage.
Safety Discussions and New Procedures
This week, all 11 teams and the FIA are engaged in discussions over multiple issues, including an ongoing engine compression row and race start safety. A new practice start procedure is being trialed, involving red flags, formation laps, and a blue pre-start warning to enhance safety measures.
During testing, a trial of this procedure saw all cars complete formation laps and a simulated start without major incidents, though further evaluations are planned for the coming days. Concerns linger as drivers and teams adapt to the new regulations, with Verstappen and Hamilton vocal about potential challenges.
Live Updates and Future Sessions
Follow along for real-time updates as Verstappen takes to the track and teams fine-tune their setups. With the 2026 season fast approaching, these final tests are crucial for addressing performance and safety ahead of the Australian Grand Prix. Join us tomorrow for continued coverage from Bahrain as the countdown to the new F1 era intensifies.
